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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate Urban Living Experience

Authors:
Sang Min Cha, Da-seul Kim, Jehyun Kang, Somin Park
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Elevate Urban Living Experience

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly blends sustainable materials with a vibrant urban identity, fostering a dynamic mixed-use environment that encourages community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a biophilic design approach through extensive green roofs that enhance biodiversity.
02
Features modular construction techniques allowing for efficient assembly and adaptability.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
04
Incorporates large communal terraces fostering social interaction among residents.
05
Emphasizes thermal mass through the use of cross-laminated timber for improved energy efficiency.
Located in a bustling urban environment, the architectural design project exemplifies a thoughtful response to contemporary living needs while integrating harmoniously with its surroundings. The structure stands as a multifaceted entity, embodying the principles of functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic coherence. This project represents not merely a building, but a vital space that fosters community interaction and engagement, carefully considering the dynamics of its geographical setting.

At its core, the project functions as a mixed-use space designed to accommodate residential units, commercial activities, and communal areas. This intentional blending of functionalities aims to create an ecosystem that responds dynamically to the daily lives of its inhabitants. The design emphasizes public accessibility, with an inviting ground-level retail space that seamlessly connects the inner workings of the building to the street. This blurs the line between private and public, making the architecture an integral part of the community's daily rhythm.

The architectural design is defined by a selection of materials chosen for their sustainability and contextual relevance. Predominantly featuring concrete, glass, and timber, the construction prioritizes both durability and aesthetic appeal. The concrete structure offers robustness and longevity, while expansive glass elements maximize light penetration, connecting interior environments with the outdoor landscape. Timber, used in various elements throughout the design, adds warmth and texture, contributing to a harmonious blend of modernity and nature. These materials not only serve their intended structural purposes but also contribute to energy efficiency, ensuring the building minimizes its ecological footprint.

The unique design approach employed in this project lies in its careful consideration of vertical and horizontal relationships throughout the structure. Architectural sections reflect the innovative use of layered volumes that create a sense of movement and dynamism, encouraging exploration and interaction between different spaces. The façade showcases a striking play of textures and openings, providing both visual interest and functional shading to combat solar exposure. This thoughtful detailing significantly enhances the building's environmental performance while delivering a visually engaging experience.

A striking feature of the project is its attention to communal spaces, which serve as vital nodes for social engagement. Large, shared terraces and green roofs not only provide residents with private outdoor spaces but also foster a sense of community among occupants. These areas feature carefully curated landscaping, which integrates local plant species to support biodiversity and enhance the overall microclimate. This aspect of the design reflects a commitment to biophilic principles, reinforcing the relationship between people and nature.

The overall outcome of the architectural design aligns with contemporary values related to urban living, emphasizing sustainability, community, and integrative design. Every decision made during the design process aimed to enhance not just the functionality of the space but also its contribution to urban morphologies, encouraging pedestrian-friendly interactions and promoting a vibrant street life.

As this architectural design project continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to the capabilities of informed and responsible architecture. To gain a deeper understanding of this compelling project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs associated with it. These elements provide essential insights into the thoughtful considerations and innovative ideas that have shaped this design endeavor, illustrating a commitment to excellence in architecture.
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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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