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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Functional Urban Community Hub

Authors:
Saeed Hekmatnia, Neda Kordbacheh
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Functional Urban Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed using charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates sustainable materials to form a versatile urban community hub that fosters interaction and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a unique combination of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber for enhanced durability.
02
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while providing structural integrity.
03
Incorporates extensive daylighting strategies through strategically placed skylights and large windows.
04
Integrates green roofs to promote biodiversity and aid in stormwater management.
05
Employs low-VOC finishes to ensure a healthy indoor environment for occupants.
The project under analysis is an architectural design focused on creating functional spaces that integrate harmoniously with their environment. It reflects a commitment to modern architectural principles while ensuring usability and user experience. The building’s design emphasizes a balance between aesthetics and practicality, fostering an inclusive atmosphere for its occupants.

Significant elements of the project include an open floor plan that facilitates natural flow and connectivity among different areas within the structure. Large windows and strategic placement of entrances maximize daylight penetration, promoting energy efficiency and enhancing the overall ambiance. The exterior of the building features a combination of textured facade materials, creating visual interest while grounding the design in its landscape. The careful selection of finishes underscores the project’s ethos of sustainability, with a focus on low-impact materials that are both durable and aesthetically pleasing.

Subtitle 2 - Innovative Use of Space and Light
The project distinguishes itself through its innovative spatial arrangement and thoughtful use of light. Each area serves distinct functions, yet they are interconnected through a central atrium that acts as a focal point. This atrium not only provides a communal gathering space but also maximizes verticality, drawing the eye upward and enhancing the perception of space. The thoughtful incorporation of skylights further accentuates this effect, allowing natural light to infiltrate deep into the interior spaces.

The building’s design also addresses acoustic considerations, utilizing materials that minimize sound transmission between rooms. This attention to detail fosters an environment conducive to both collaboration and concentration, catering to a diverse range of activities. The blend of private and communal areas exemplifies a user-centered approach, responding to the needs of the occupants while promoting interaction and engagement.

Subtitle 3 - Material Selection and Sustainability
Materiality plays a pivotal role in this project, with a focus on sustainability and low environmental impact. The use of reclaimed wood, recycled metal, and low-VOC finishes signals a commitment to environmentally responsible practices. This selection not only contributes to the building's aesthetic but also ensures longevity and ease of maintenance.

The integration of green roofs and walls further enhances the project’s sustainable credentials, providing insulation and reducing urban heat island effects. These features encourage biodiversity and facilitate stormwater management, exemplifying how architecture can contribute positively to the urban ecosystem.

The design of this project serves as a case study in modern architectural thought, illustrating how thoughtful design decisions can harmonize with operational functionality. Exploration of the architectural plans and sections will reveal deeper insights into the integration of space, light, and material choices as key elements of the overall design philosophy. Engage with the project presentation to discover further architectural ideas and details that encapsulate its unique identity.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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