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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Versatile Urban Hub

Authors:
Jakob Wiesner, Tyler Glass
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Versatile Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a functional urban hub that merges sustainable living with integrated community spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and reduced maintenance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber for expedited construction timelines and structural integrity.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainability and water efficiency.
05
Offers versatile communal spaces adaptable to various community activities and events.
The project is a contemporary architectural design located in an urban context, emphasizing functionality and sustainability. This building serves a mixed-use purpose, accommodating residential spaces alongside commercial areas. The design reflects a balance between aesthetics and practicality, offering a seamless integration of living and working environments. Key architectural features include an innovative facade that enhances energy efficiency while maintaining a connection to the surrounding urban landscape.

The structure's layout optimizes natural light and promotes airflow, which is crucial for reducing energy consumption. By incorporating communal spaces, the design fosters social interaction among residents and visitors, aiming to strengthen community engagement. The use of high-performance materials not only supports durability but also minimizes maintenance requirements over the long term.

Unique Approaches to Functionality and Aesthetics

The project distinguishes itself through its adaptability to changing user needs. Flexible floor plans have been devised to accommodate various residential configurations, allowing individual units to be reconfigured as required. This feature enhances the project's resilience in a dynamic urban setting. Furthermore, the design includes sustainable technologies, such as rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels, indicating a commitment to environmental stewardship.

The architectural articulation of the facade plays a critical role in the project's identity. The use of textured surfaces creates visual interest while breaking down the building's scale, making it more approachable. Large windows not only improve the aesthetic quality but also enhance occupants' experience by providing views of the surrounding urban context, thus encouraging a connection with the neighborhood.

Innovative Structural Solutions

Another significant aspect of the design is its structural approach. The incorporation of lightweight materials in combination with a robust framing system allows for wide open spaces and less reliance on internal load-bearing walls. This method maximizes usable area, providing both residential and commercial units with functional layouts. Additionally, the project employs green roofs and vertical gardens, promoting biodiversity and offering residents a unique outdoor amenity. These elements are not merely decorative; they contribute to the building’s environmental performance by improving insulation and managing stormwater runoff.

By considering both current needs and future adaptability, this project sets a precedent for urban architecture that values longevity and user comfort. For those interested in the specifics of the design, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and other design elements will provide further insight into the thoughtful decisions that shaped this project. Exploring these details will reveal how the architecture addresses practical challenges while contributing positively to the urban landscape.
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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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