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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Engaging Urban Community Space

Authors:
Evelyn silvia Oetomo, Ali Abdullateef
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Engaging Urban Community Space

Project in-detail

With a striking façade of charred wooden shingles and warm cross-laminated timber interiors, the design fosters a vibrant community hub that seamlessly integrates public spaces and versatile functions within an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space and encourages natural light penetration.
04
Includes vertical gardens integrated into the façade, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality.
05
Designed with flexible communal areas that adapt to various community events and activities.
The project at hand represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, merging functionality with a cohesive design language that resonates with its urban context. Located in a bustling metropolitan area, the architectural design seeks to foster community engagement while addressing the practical requirements of its intended use as a mixed-use development. This project not only aims to provide essential services and spaces for various demographics but also aspires to enhance the neighborhood’s aesthetic and social fabric.

At the core of the design is a commitment to sustainability and environmental consciousness. The project employs a variety of sustainable materials, including reclaimed wood, concrete, and large panes of low-emissivity glass, which work together to reduce the carbon footprint of the structure while offering natural insulation and light. These materials are carefully selected not only for their functional properties but also for their aesthetic qualities, ensuring that the architecture remains visually appealing to the public and seamlessly integrates into the surrounding urban environment.

The overall design embodies an open and inviting atmosphere, characterized by expansive public spaces that encourage interaction and connectivity. The primary entry point features a wide landscaped plaza designed to be a communal gathering space, accessible from multiple directions, which promotes foot traffic and engagement with the street. The architectural plans reflect the importance of connectivity in urban design, providing easy access to transit options and encouraging an active lifestyle among residents and visitors.

Vertical elements such as green walls and terraces add a sense of dynamism to the façade, not only enhancing the visual interest of the building but also providing functional green spaces that contribute to local biodiversity. The incorporation of vegetation throughout the project demonstrates a holistic approach to design, where architecture and nature coexist harmoniously. This focus on integrating landscape elements within the structure establishes a dialogue between the built environment and the natural world, promoting well-being among occupants.

Inside, the design prioritizes flexible spaces that can adapt to various uses, from retail to community events and offices. The architectural sections reveal a keen understanding of how spaces can be used over time, emphasizing the importance of versatility in modern architectural practice. This flexibility ensures the building can evolve with the community’s needs, making it a lasting asset rather than a static installation.

Unique details embedded within the architecture further enhance user experience and engagement. For example, strategically placed windows not only flood interior spaces with natural light but also frame views of the surrounding landscape and cityscape, creating a connection between the occupants and their environment. The thoughtful allocation of communal spaces, such as meeting rooms and lounges, encourages collaboration and interaction, aligning with contemporary trends in workspaces and social architecture.

In discussing the design execution, attention is also paid to the circulation within the project. The flow of movement has been carefully considered, providing clear pathways that guide users seamlessly from one function to another. This consideration of circulation not only improves the usability of the space but also contributes to a sense of comfort and ease, reflecting the architects’ understanding of the human experience within architectural settings.

As this project progresses, it stands as a testament to the thoughtful and innovative approaches in modern architecture, underscoring the significance of design that is both functional and contextually aware. For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this project, including the architectural plans and sections that articulate its spatial organization and material relationships, a detailed exploration of the project presentation is highly recommended. By examining these technical drawings and design ideas, one can gain further insights into how this architecture aims to shape contemporary urban life.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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