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Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate Contemporary Community Living

Authors:
Matteo Maccaferri, Camilla Brusa
Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate Contemporary Community Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber create a harmonious blend of sustainability and modern design in a thriving community hub that fosters connection and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The exterior features charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and weather resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural integrity, promoting sustainability through efficient material usage.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal interior space utilization and creates visually dynamic rooflines.
04
Landscaping incorporates native flora, supporting local biodiversity and reducing the need for irrigation.
05
Flexible interior layouts adapt to various community activities, fostering engagement and interaction among users.
The project at hand represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, combining functionality with aesthetic sensibility to create a space that is both practical and engaging. This design serves a multifaceted role, catering to the needs of its users while also making a statement about the context in which it exists. The architecture emphasizes an integration with the surrounding environment, reflecting a deep understanding of place and community.

At first glance, the project exemplifies a harmonious blend of modern materials and innovative structural approaches. The exterior facade showcases a combination of glass and sustainable materials, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors while connecting the occupants with the outside environment. This deliberate choice of materials not only enhances the visual appeal but also emphasizes the project's commitment to sustainability. The use of local stone and recycled metals further underscores the architecture's ecological considerations, showcasing how modern design can respect and reflect its geographical context.

Moving into the details of the design, the layout is organized with both efficiency and comfort in mind. Open spaces foster interaction and encourage a sense of community among users, while strategically placed walls and partitions provide necessary privacy without sacrificing open flow. The arrangement of rooms allows for a seamless transition from public to private areas, catering excellently to both social gatherings and quiet moments. This functional zoning is particularly noteworthy and demonstrates a strong grasp of user experience within architectural design.

The building features an array of unique design approaches that challenge traditional concepts. One such approach is the integration of green roofs and living walls, which not only enhances the aesthetic quality but also contributes to the building’s overall environmental performance. These features serve to reduce urban heat, improve air quality, and promote biodiversity, aligning the design with contemporary environmental goals. Furthermore, the architectural elements incorporate passive design strategies that optimize energy efficiency. Windows are strategically placed to maximize daylight while minimizing heat gain, showcasing a thoughtful response to the climate of the region.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the project. The interior spaces are finished with high-quality materials that are both durable and visually appealing. Textured surfaces, colored accents, and carefully chosen furnishings create an inviting atmosphere conducive to various activities. Design elements such as built-in shelving and flexible workspace options reflect a practical understanding of how architectural design can enhance functionality.

Distinctive design features also extend to the aesthetic language of the architecture. The use of bold geometric forms creates a sense of rhythm and movement, drawing the eye upwards and inviting exploration. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the day alters the building's appearance, evoking a dynamic relationship with its surroundings. Each angle reveals a new perspective, encouraging engagement with the architecture on multiple levels.

Ultimately, this project stands as a testament to how thoughtful architectural design can create spaces that are not only functional but also enrich the lives of those who inhabit or visit them. It prompts a re-evaluation of how architecture can respond to local conditions while embodying modern ideals of sustainability and community engagement. For readers interested in learning more about the architectural nuances of this project, examining the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the creative process and the underlying ideas that shape this work. Engage with the project presentation to explore these elements further.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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