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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Community Space

Author:
Mahar Ali Mansour Al Sanjalawi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Community Space

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design offers a harmoniously integrated community space that prioritizes sustainability and user engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and connects interior spaces with the outdoors.
04
Integrates green roofs and vertical gardens to promote biodiversity and environmental health.
05
Employs flexible interior layouts to accommodate various community activities and enhance user engagement.
In the realm of contemporary architecture, the project stands as a testament to thoughtful design and functional elegance. Located within a vibrant urban context, this architectural endeavor serves not only as a structure but as a pivotal asset for the community it inhabits. The design aims to foster interaction while responding sensitively to its surroundings, representing an integration of modern architecture with practical necessities.

This project encapsulates a multi-faceted approach, combining a clear functional purpose with a bold aesthetic language. Embodying the principles of sustainable design, the project emphasizes energy efficiency and a reduced ecological footprint through the careful selection of materials and innovative building practices. The architecture is meticulously crafted, showcasing a harmonious blend of form and function that prioritizes user experience and comfort.

Key elements of the project include an inviting entrance that sets the tone for the entire experience. This threshold is designed not merely as a pass-through but as an intentional space that encourages foot traffic and community engagement. The façade speaks to a sense of transparency and openness, featuring large windows that invite natural light into the interior spaces, making them feel warm and welcoming. This approach not only enhances the interior ambiance but also connects those indoors with the surrounding urban landscape.

Internally, the layout is organized with functionality at its core, offering a series of adaptable spaces. These areas are designed to accommodate various activities, from collaborative work environments to quiet contemplation zones. Flexible partitions provide users with the option to modify spaces based on their immediate needs, ensuring that the architecture supports a dynamic lifestyle.

A distinctive feature of the project is the integration of green spaces into the design. Roof gardens and vertical plantings contribute to biodiversity while improving air quality and enhancing the site's aesthetic appeal. This incorporation of nature is not merely an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of the architecture that seeks to promote environmental stewardship and well-being among users.

The materiality reflects a conscious choice to prioritize sustainability while achieving a contemporary look. The project utilizes local materials, including reclaimed wood, natural stone, and high-performance glazing, all of which enhance the building's energy efficiency and durability. This selection emphasizes the project’s commitment to sustainability, aligning with modern architectural ideas that advocate for responsible resource use.

Moreover, unique design approaches are evident throughout the architectural layout. For instance, the interplay of light and shadow, skillfully managed through thoughtful window placements and overhangs, not only contributes to the building's aesthetic but also influences temperature regulation within the interior. The careful consideration of climate and environmental factors illustrates a deliberate strategy to create a comfortable space year-round.

The overall architectural design fosters community interaction, encouraging users to engage not only with the building but also with one another. Whether through communal areas, event spaces, or open-air corridors, every element is oriented toward creating an inviting environment that promotes social engagement.

As the project reaches completion, it stands as a noteworthy example of modern architecture that emphasizes sustainability, community interaction, and elegant functionality. Those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this project are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas further. Such exploration will provide greater insights into the thoughtful strategies that underpin this architectural achievement, illuminating its place within the broader discourse of contemporary architectural practice.
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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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