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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Community Hub Emphasizing Urban Connectivity

Author:
Marcos Moises Villegas Barboza
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Community Hub Emphasizing Urban Connectivity

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber create a visually compelling façade that seamlessly integrates a multifunctional urban hub designed for community engagement and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic fluidity.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a distinctive visual texture.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainability and reduce construction waste.
04
Includes versatile communal spaces designed for flexible use and community events.
05
Integrates green roofing elements to support biodiversity and manage rainwater effectively.
The architectural project under examination demonstrates a thoughtful interplay of form, function, and materiality, embodying contemporary design principles tailored to its geographical context. Nestled within a vibrant urban landscape, this project serves as a multi-functional hub designed to accommodate various activities, encouraging community interaction and fostering social engagement. Its primary function revolves around the integration of public amenities, residential spaces, and cultural facilities, creating an inviting environment for diverse groups of users.

At first glance, the project reveals a harmonious balance between the built form and its surroundings. The facade exhibits a blend of modern aesthetics with contextual elements, using a palette of materials that enhances its relationship with the environment. The choice of materials includes concrete, glass, steel, and sustainable timber, each element carefully selected to not only fulfill structural requirements but also to resonate with the natural and urban surroundings. Glass elements dominate the lower levels, allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces, while offering transparency that invites pedestrians and encourages interaction with the street.

One of the unique design approaches of the project lies in its modularity and adaptability. The floor plans have been arranged to accommodate flexible use, allowing spaces to be reconfigured as necessary to meet the changing needs of the community. This adaptability is further emphasized in the open-plan areas that can serve as communal spaces during events or informal gatherings, thus promoting a sense of inclusivity and approachability. The thoughtful design of circulation pathways within the building encourages exploration and engagement, guiding visitors through a variety of spaces designed for both leisure and practicality.

Landscaping plays a pivotal role in the project’s overall design philosophy, bridging the gap between the interior and exterior realms. Green roofs and vertical gardens provide a sustainable approach to managing rainwater and promoting biodiversity in an urban context. These green interventions not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to the well-being of the occupants by introducing elements of nature into their daily experience. The outdoor spaces are designed to be versatile, serving as sites for community events or quiet retreats for individuals seeking respite from the hustle of city life.

Furthermore, the project emphasizes sustainability through the integration of energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, aligning with the growing demand for environmentally sensitive architecture. Passive design strategies are skillfully integrated, maximizing thermal performance and reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. This conscious effort towards sustainability serves as a model for future architectural endeavors, demonstrating a commitment to environmental responsibility while providing practical solutions for urban living.

The architectural details throughout the project merit attention as well. The precise detailing of joints and material transitions reflects a high level of craftsmanship, with an emphasis on simplicity and function. Elements such as shading devices are incorporated into the design to mitigate solar glare while enhancing the building's aesthetic appeal. This attention to detail not only enriches the visual experience but also ensures that all aspects of the project contribute to its overall performance and user satisfaction.

As the project unfolds within its urban context, it stands as a testament to the possibilities of contemporary architecture. By prioritizing community, sustainability, and adaptability, it addresses the needs of its users while embracing the challenges posed by modern urban environments. Readers interested in exploring the project's architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas are encouraged to delve deeper into the multifaceted aspects of this design, revealing the intricate thought processes and innovative solutions that define its architectural narrative.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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