Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Flexible Community Space

Author:
Walaa Khairy Ahmed Abdelaziz Ahmed
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Flexible Community Space

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this multi-purpose community space harmonizes sustainability with flexible design, offering an inviting environment for diverse local activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing both aesthetics and durability while minimizing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural elements, promoting sustainable forestry practices.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes interior space while maintaining visual harmony with the surrounding landscape.
04
Natural daylighting is maximized through carefully positioned skylights, reducing energy consumption.
05
Flexible room configurations allow for a diverse range of community activities and events, adapting to various needs.
The architectural project under analysis embodies a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context, showcasing a design that resonates well with its surrounding environment. The project serves as a multi-purpose facility, intended to accommodate both community activities and individual use, enhancing the local social fabric while responding to its geographical location.

The design concept leans heavily on principles of sustainability and adaptability, with an emphasis on using materials that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The structure is characterized by its innovative use of natural light, which floods the interior spaces and establishes a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. Large windows and strategically placed skylights allow natural illumination, creating an inviting atmosphere while reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daylight hours.

In terms of materiality, the project utilizes a selection of time-tested and environmentally friendly materials, including reclaimed wood, exposed concrete, and high-performance glazing. Reclaimed wood offers not only a rustic charm but also an eco-conscious choice that reflects a commitment to sustainability. The exposed concrete lends a sense of permanence and robustness to the structure while ensuring minimal maintenance requirements. High-performance glazing enhances energy efficiency, contributing to the project’s overall green credentials while allowing occupants to enjoy unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.

The architectural design incorporates various elements that invite interaction and promote community engagement. Open spaces flow seamlessly into communal areas, encouraging a sense of connection among users. Flexible layouts are a hallmark of this project, allowing for a range of events and activities that can be easily adapted to meet the needs of the community. This adaptability is vital, as it ensures the space remains relevant and useful over time, accommodating shifting demographics and evolving societal needs.

Each area of the project has been meticulously designed to serve a specific purpose while also contributing to the overall cohesiveness of the structure. For instance, the entrance serves as a welcoming threshold, with a prominent overhang that provides shelter and enhances accessibility. This initial architectural gesture sets the tone for the rest of the building, demonstrating a commitment to user experience from the very first point of interaction.

Moreover, the project's layout takes full advantage of the site’s topography, with terraced levels creating distinct zones for various functions, seamlessly linking the interiors with the exterior landscapes. Outdoor spaces, including landscaped gardens and gathering spots, are thoughtfully integrated, promoting outdoor activities and fostering social connections among users. The careful consideration of the landscape complements the architectural vision, ensuring that both built and natural environments coexist harmoniously.

Unique design approaches, such as the incorporation of passive solar strategies, highlight the project's forward-thinking ethos. By optimizing the building's orientation and utilizing overhangs, the design reduces heat gain in the summer while maximizing warmth in the winter. This approach not only lowers energy consumption but also demonstrates a holistic understanding of environmental stewardship, contributing positively to climate-conscious architecture.

In summary, this architectural project represents a harmonious blend of innovative design, sustainability, and community-centric functionality. The careful selection of materials ensures durability and minimal environmental impact, while the layout fosters interaction and engagement among users. To gain deeper insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. It offers an opportunity to appreciate the detailed considerations that have shaped this remarkable endeavor, highlighting the thoughtful narrative behind its architectural ideas.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy