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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elements in a Versatile Community Space

Author:
Karol Gorczyca
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elements in a Versatile Community Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a harmonious space that fosters community engagement through its adaptable living and gathering areas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and low maintenance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and insulation.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while providing aesthetic distinctiveness.
04
Utilizes large glass panels to promote natural light and connect indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Integrates green roofs to support biodiversity and reduce energy consumption.

The project presents a contemporary architectural design that emphasizes functionality while integrating seamlessly with its surrounding environment. This development prioritizes the needs of its users through intelligent space planning and innovative use of materials, making it a noteworthy contribution to the collection of modern architecture.

The design emerges from a comprehensive understanding of the geographical context, enhancing the project's relevance to its locale. It features an open-plan layout, promoting versatility in use and allowing for natural light to permeate the interior spaces. The exterior showcases a harmonious blend of contemporary aesthetics and practical elements, ensuring both visual appeal and durability. The primary function of the structure serves both residential and communal purposes, thus fostering a sense of community among users.

Innovative Use of Materials
The project's uniqueness lies in its careful selection of materials, which include reinforced concrete, sustainable timber, and large expanses of glass. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity and resilience, while the incorporation of sustainable timber introduces warmth and tactile qualities to the design. Large glass panels create a visual connection between interior spaces and the exterior environment, effectively blurring the boundaries and enhancing the overall user experience.

This architectural design foregrounds sustainability as a core principle. Large overhangs provide shade, decreasing the reliance on artificial cooling systems. Additionally, the integration of green roofs contributes to energy efficiency and biodiversity. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility, with a focus on local sourcing to minimize the project's carbon footprint.

Spatial Organization and Functionality
Careful consideration has been given to the spatial organization, with defined zones for living, working, and socializing. Each area is designed to maximize usability while maintaining intimacy. The living spaces are strategically aligned to capture natural light, enhancing the ambiance during different times of the day.

The project's design also fosters interaction among inhabitants through communal areas that encourage social engagement. Flexible spaces can adapt to various functions, from informal gatherings to more organized community events. This adaptability is enhanced by modular furniture that supports different seating arrangements as necessary.

Overall, this architectural project represents a forward-thinking approach to design, one that prioritizes user experience, sustainability, and community engagement. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs further to gain insights into the specific elements that contribute to the project’s functionality and aesthetic appeal.

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

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Competition organisers

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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