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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Intergenerational Living Spaces

Authors:
Woo Seok Choi, Joung Been Bae
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Intergenerational Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design fosters a sense of community among residents while prioritizing accessibility in intergenerational living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses a dual-skin facade to enhance thermal efficiency and integrate greenery.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainable water management.
03
Features community-oriented kitchens strategically located to encourage social interaction.
04
Utilizes a sloped roof design to maximize natural light while allowing for outdoor spaces.
05
Employs bamboo flooring for its sustainability and aesthetic appeal in residential units.

### Overview

The (n) TIES project is located in a transitional urban setting that connects educational facilities, commercial markets, and various amenities. The intent of the design is to promote intergenerational connectivity and social interaction, particularly among senior residents. By creating communal spaces and tailored housing, the project seeks to foster a sense of community while addressing the challenge of social isolation among older populations.

### Spatial Strategy and User Engagement

The design emphasizes a concept of gathering and coexistence, facilitated by spatial arrangements that allow for fluid movement between different areas. Communal facilities such as cooking classes, libraries, and workshops are integrated into the layout, encouraging interaction not only among residents but also with the wider community. The pathway system enhances connectivity between residential units, shared spaces, and the surrounding neighborhood, thus supporting an inclusive community fabric.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a critical consideration in the project, focusing on sustainability without compromising aesthetic appeal. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) serves as the structural framework, offering strength and a reduced carbon footprint. Bamboo flooring is selected for its durability and environmental benefits, while ochre wall finishing contributes to indoor climate control. Additionally, a double skin facade integrates greenery, improving thermal performance and visual interest. Passive design elements, such as natural ventilation techniques, further reduce the reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The incorporation of a rainwater harvesting system also emphasizes the commitment to sustainable practices and efficient resource management.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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