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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Pierre-guillaume Mathern
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

With its distinctive charred wooden shingles and innovative use of cross-laminated timber panels, this residential complex redefines urban living while fostering a strong sense of community and environmental responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique texture to the façade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrated vertical gardens improve air quality and promote biodiversity within the urban setting.
05
Flexible interior spaces accommodate various living arrangements, fostering community interaction.
This architectural project embodies a nuanced interpretation of contemporary living, reflecting a careful balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal. Situated in a dynamic urban environment, the design is not merely a physical structure but a thoughtful representation of the lifestyle and cultural values of its inhabitants. The project primarily serves as a multi-family residence, showcasing how thoughtful design can enhance communal living while allowing for personal expression.

The architecture showcases a harmonious blend of modern minimalism with organic elements, resulting in a dwelling that feels both welcoming and sophisticated. The overall structure is meticulously crafted to maximize natural light and ventilation, ensuring that the interiors are as inviting as they are practical. Large windows punctuate the façade, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape and blurring the boundary between inside and outside.

Among the prominent features is the use of sustainable building materials that promote energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. The exterior is clad in a combination of locally sourced stone and sustainably harvested timber, providing a tactile and visually appealing surface that ages gracefully over time. This materiality not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the project but also enhances its durability and performance, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability throughout the design process.

Key architectural elements include a series of cantilevered balconies, which extend the living spaces outward and create dynamic outdoor areas for residents to enjoy. The design emphasizes connection to nature, with greenery integrated into various levels of the building, allowing residents to experience nature in different forms, whether through landscaped terraces or vertical gardens. This biophilic approach is central to the project, fostering an environment where occupants can thrive and feel at home.

Internally, the layout is designed with practicality and comfort in mind. Open-plan living areas are combined with private spaces, allowing for both social interaction and personal retreat. The use of warm woods contrasts pleasantly against the sleek lines of the contemporary furnishings, creating a space that is cohesive yet diverse in its utility. Elements such as built-in storage solutions and flexible room configurations further enhance the functional aspects of the design, catering to a variety of lifestyles and preferences.

The project also incorporates innovative technologies, such as smart home systems that allow for enhanced control over heating, lighting, and security. This integration of modern technology with traditional architectural principles highlights a forward-thinking approach that appeals to today's discerning residents.

As a holistic endeavor, this architectural project represents more than just a collection of walls and roofs—it stands as a community-centric space that prioritizes engagement and well-being. The thoughtful consideration given to both the public and private realms facilitates an environment conducive to interaction among residents and encourages a sense of belonging.

For those looking to explore the depth of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide additional insights into the intricacies of the design process. This comprehensive exploration will showcase the various architectural ideas implemented throughout, revealing the intention and thoughtfulness behind each decision made. The architectural presentation serves as an invitation to delve deeper into the project's narrative and structural innovations.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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