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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Inviting Community Spaces Amidst Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Myriam De mesa amores, Pol Fernández fernández
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Inviting Community Spaces Amidst Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a seamless integration into the natural landscape, fostering a vibrant community hub that invites both residents and visitors to gather and engage.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were utilized for rapid construction and structural efficiency.
03
The design incorporates tiered terraces that blend with the surrounding landscape, offering panoramic views.
04
Local stone cladding was integrated to reflect regional architectural traditions and promote sustainability.
05
Flexible public spaces are designed to adapt for various community events, increasing usability throughout the year.
The architectural project titled “Lacunas” presents a thoughtful exploration of how design can foster community connection while enhancing the integration of human habitation into the existing natural environment. Situated in an area characterized by distinct topographical features, the project signifies a harmonious relationship between built structures and the surrounding landscape. It aims to create spaces that serve not only residents but also visitors, promoting a sense of belonging and interaction through its well-considered design.

At its core, “Lacunas” represents an architectural ideology focused on creating communal areas that encourage social engagement. The layout features a series of interconnected squares that function as gathering places, each with its unique design elements catering to different activities. These spaces are flexible, allowing for a variety of uses, from local markets and cultural events to casual meetings and recreational pursuits. By prioritizing human scale and interaction, the project builds a responsive environment that adapts to the needs of its users.

The architectural design incorporates a variety of housing options, including hotel rooms, hostal spaces, and artist residences. This diversity caters to both short and long-term visitors, providing comfortable accommodations while creating a vibrant community spirit. Each unit is positioned to maximize views and natural light while maintaining privacy, thereby encouraging an ideal living experience. The thoughtful arrangement of these spaces ensures that each area benefits from the surrounding landscape, with natural elements woven into the fabric of residential life.

Materiality is a central theme in the project, with a focus on locally sourced and sustainable materials, which reinforces the connection to the area’s cultural identity. The use of local stone not only enhances the aesthetic coherence of the project but also ensures sustainability, while materials like reinforced concrete and wood may be employed to create durable structures that still evoke warmth and comfort. This emphasis on regional materials fosters a sense of authenticity and belonging within the environment.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the way it embraces topography and sunlight. The stepped forms of the building respond to the natural slope of the site, allowing for unobstructed views of the surroundings. The design maximizes solar orientation, utilizing renewable energy sources to sustain the community’s needs. This not only demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility but also aligns with architectural best practices aimed at reducing energy consumption.

The project incorporates innovative public spaces that are designed to be multifunctional, enhancing their usability and appeal to a wide audience. Areas dedicated to markets, exhibitions, and recreational activities create a lively atmosphere that draws in both locals and visitors. This approach encourages an active lifestyle and supports the local economy by fostering community engagement through cultural offerings.

The careful attention to circulation within the project allows for fluid movement between spaces, further enhancing the overall user experience. Pathways connecting various elements of the design minimize congestion while encouraging exploration and interaction among users. In this manner, the “Lacunas” project successfully combines aesthetic considerations with practical functionality, creating a cohesive architectural experience.

As you immerse yourself in the architectural presentation of “Lacunas,” you will discover a myriad of details, such as architectural plans, sections, and designs that vividly illustrate the thoughtfulness of the project. Each component is a testament to an architectural vision that prioritizes community, sustainability, and responsiveness to the environment. For a deeper understanding of this innovative design and to explore its practical implications further, it is encouraged to examine the project's comprehensive presentation. The exploration of architectural ideas presented in "Lacunas" promises to inspire new ways of thinking about the integration of architecture and community 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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