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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Community Center’s Sustainable Design

Authors:
MAURIZIO SPINA, GIUSEPPE DI NATALE, GIULIA PASCALI, MARIA GIOVANNA FORMICA
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Community Center’s Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber elegantly combine to create a versatile community center that fosters social interaction and engagement while seamlessly integrating into its urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic that reflects local traditions.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels facilitate rapid construction and sustainable building practices while maintaining structural integrity.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for expansive interior spaces and maximizes natural light throughout the building.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems demonstrate a commitment to environmental sustainability and resource conservation.
05
The layout encourages community engagement with multifunctional spaces that adapt to various social activities and events.
The project under analysis is a finely crafted architectural endeavor that stands as a testament to innovative design and thoughtful functionality. Located in a dynamic urban environment, this building embodies a significant narrative related to its context, representing a fusion of contemporary architectural principles and the cultural heritage of its surroundings. The primary function of the project is to serve as a community center, providing essential services and spaces that foster social interaction, learning, and cultural exchange.

At the heart of this architectural project is a comprehensive understanding of the site's characteristics, including its topography, climate, and the community's needs. The design approach taken by the architects emphasizes the seamless integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a harmonious dialogue between the built environment and the natural landscape. Large, strategically placed windows invite natural light into the interior while offering captivating views of the surrounding area. This aspect not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the project but also promotes energy efficiency, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

The architectural expression of the building is characterized by a careful selection of materials that reflect both modern sensibilities and local traditions. For instance, the use of sustainable timber for structural elements conveys a warm, inviting atmosphere, while also ensuring minimal environmental impact. Complementary materials such as high-quality concrete contribute to the durability and longevity of the structure. The combination of these materials underpins the project's commitment to sustainability without compromising on aesthetics or functionality.

Key design features include an expansive central atrium that serves as the social heart of the building. This open space encourages collaboration and engagement among visitors and occupants. Surrounding the atrium are various multifunctional rooms designed for flexibility, allowing for a range of activities from community meetings to art exhibitions. Careful attention has been paid to acoustic performance in these spaces, ensuring they can accommodate diverse programming without sacrificing comfort or usability.

The exterior of the building presents an engaging facade that captures interest while remaining respectful of the surrounding architectural context. The design includes decorative elements that draw inspiration from local motifs, blending the new construction with the historical character of the area. This thoughtful approach to design not only enhances the visual interest but also fosters a sense of place that resonates with local residents.

Sustainability is woven into the project’s framework, reflected in its energy-efficient systems and practices. The incorporation of green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems exemplifies the commitment to reducing the building’s ecological footprint. These design elements not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also offer educational opportunities for the community by showcasing responsible environmental practices in action.

The integration of technology throughout the building elevates the user experience by providing smart solutions that enhance functionality. From user-friendly interfaces for managing lighting and climate control, to advanced security systems, these thoughtful technological integrations ensure that the building operates efficiently while remaining accessible and welcoming to all visitors.

Unique to this project is its focus on fostering community engagement. The architects collaborated extensively with local stakeholders during the design process, incorporating feedback to ensure the final design truly reflects the needs and desires of those it serves. This participatory approach is evident in the thoughtful layout and versatile programming spaces that enable varied uses and user groups.

In summary, this architectural project stands as a commendable example of contemporary design that is deeply rooted in its local context. Its thoughtful integration of materials, architectural elements, and sustainability practices showcases the architects' dedication to creating a space that transcends mere functionality, instead offering a vibrant venue for community engagement and cultural exchange. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and overall architectural designs that shaped this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation available, which highlights the rich architectural ideas that underpin its development.
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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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