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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Community Connectivity in a Modern Urban Setting

Author:
Syeda Nusrat Jahan Nouri
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Community Connectivity in a Modern Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles create visual warmth while cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength, fostering an inviting community hub that seamlessly integrates with its urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance while providing aesthetic warmth.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability in construction.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and creates spacious, airy interiors.
04
Integrates flexible spaces that can adapt to various community activities, fostering engagement and conviviality.
05
Employs local materials to reinforce community identity and establish a strong connection to the surrounding environment.
The architectural project represents a harmonious blend of modern design and functionality, situated in a context that respects both its historical and environmental surroundings. This project emphasizes an approach that prioritizes sustainability while catering to the needs of its occupants. Nestled within a dynamic urban landscape, the building serves multiple functions, offering spaces for communal gathering, work, and relaxation, thus enhancing the overall user experience.

At the heart of the design is a commitment to open spaces, which allows natural light to flood the interiors, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages interaction among users. The architectural layout incorporates an array of areas that foster connection, including dedicated spaces for social interaction as well as more solitary environments designed for focused work. This carefully considered spatial organization enhances the functionality of the building, making it not just a structure but a vibrant ecosystem that responds to the needs of its users.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the project’s overall aesthetic and functional outcome. The selection of materials is both intentional and strategic, reflecting a blend of durability and sustainability. The use of locally sourced stone provides a sense of place and connection to the environment, while sustainable timber elements lend warmth to the interior spaces. Large panes of glass are used extensively, enhancing transparency and seamless connections between the interior and exterior. This choice not only supports sustainable design through energy-efficient glazing but also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, further integrating the structure within its context.

The unique design approaches evident in the project include an adaptive reuse of local architectural styles, which pay homage to the area's traditions while focusing on contemporary needs. By drawing inspiration from historical precedents, the design evokes a sense of continuity that resonates with the local community. Innovations in structural engineering are also apparent, with solutions that enhance the building's resilience and performance. For instance, the incorporation of green roofs not only adds to the aesthetic value but also contributes to biodiversity and reduces urban heat, aligning with modern environmental goals.

Particularly noteworthy are the communal areas, which are designed to function as hubs of activity, encouraging gatherings and fostering a sense of community. These spaces are distinctly separate from the quieter zones, promoting a balance that allows for both social interaction and personal reflection. The architectural elements within these areas are adaptable, with movable partitions that enable flexibility in use, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to design that prioritizes user needs over rigid structures.

The interplay between form and function in the project highlights the architect’s ability to create spaces that resonate with their occupants. The fluidity of spaces, achieved through thoughtful architectural design, ensures that the building can adapt to various uses over time, thereby enhancing its longevity and relevance in a rapidly changing world.

This architectural project stands as a testament to the power of design in shaping environments that are both practical and inspiring. It invites the community to engage with it in meaningful ways, fostering connections among individuals while respecting the narrative of place. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural aspects of this project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs can provide valuable insights into the careful considerations and meticulous details that define this work. Engaging with these elements offers an enriched understanding of the project’s vision and execution, revealing the thought-provoking architectural ideas that underpin its design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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