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Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Creating Versatile Community Spaces

Author:
Stéphan G. Hoornaert
Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Creating Versatile Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design merges sustainability and modern aesthetics to create a versatile community space that encourages collaboration and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create a lightweight structure while ensuring strength and stability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration and promotes energy efficiency.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems support sustainability and resource conservation.
05
Flexible interior spaces utilize movable partitions to adapt to various community needs.
The project is an innovative architectural design that exemplifies a harmonious integration of functionality, sustainability, and aesthetics. Located in an urban setting, this design prioritizes both the needs of its users and the environmental context. The building serves as a multipurpose facility, accommodating both community activities and private events, which reflects the ongoing trend in architecture to create versatile spaces that foster social interaction.

At the heart of the design is the concept of connectivity—both physical and visual. The architectural layout promotes an open flow of movement, with strategically placed pathways that facilitate easy navigation through the various designated areas, including gathering spaces, meeting rooms, and leisure zones. This design approach encourages collaboration and interaction, making the facility an inviting hub for community engagement.

Materiality plays a vital role in the overall design, with a focus on sustainable and locally sourced materials that resonate with the surrounding environment. The primary materials utilized in this project include reclaimed wood, which adds warmth and texture to the interiors, and high-performance glass that allows natural light to penetrate deep into the spaces, reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. Moreover, the inclusion of concrete not only serves a structural purpose but also contributes to the building's thermal mass, enhancing its energy efficiency.

The building's façade is notable for its layered appearance, which combines different materials to create visual interest while simultaneously serving practical functions such as weather resistance and insulation. The thoughtful integration of green elements, including vertical gardens and rooftop terraces, further enhances the aesthetic appeal and promotes biodiversity within the urban landscape. These unique design features invite nature into the built environment, offering occupants a sense of tranquility and a connection to the outdoors.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the project, particularly in the selection of finishes and the arrangement of spaces. The interiors are designed to be flexible, with movable partitions that allow for adaptability in response to varying needs. This approach not only maximizes the usability of the spaces but also echoes contemporary architectural practices focused on creating dynamic environments.

The inclusion of innovative technologies within the project underscores a commitment to sustainability. Features such as rainwater harvesting systems and photovoltaic panels are integrated into the design to minimize the building's ecological footprint. This forward-thinking approach aligns with modern architectural trends that prioritize environmental responsibility and showcase the potential for buildings to generate their own energy.

Unique design approaches are evident in the project through the exploration of light and shadow, creating a dynamic interplay of these elements that enhances the user experience. Skylights and strategically placed windows not only illuminate the interior spaces but also provide framed views of the surrounding landscape, enriching the overall perception of the building.

In summary, this architectural project stands out for its emphasis on creating a space that is both functional and socially enriching. By prioritizing materiality, sustainability, and thoughtful design, it succeeds in offering a multifunctional environment that adapts to the needs of its users while respecting its surroundings. The integration of contemporary architectural ideas results in a facility that not only serves its primary functions effectively but also enhances the urban fabric of the area.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this architectural endeavor, I encourage a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate the comprehensive thought process behind the project. Engaging with these elements will provide further insights into the design philosophy and the innovative solutions this project embodies.
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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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