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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Forming a Community-Centric Space

Authors:
Miles Edward Scott, Andrei Smolik
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Forming a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this community hub seamlessly integrates sustainable materials to foster connection and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles that enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural integrity and energy efficiency in the building's envelope.
03
A bent A-frame design creates open interior spaces that maximize natural light and airflow throughout.
04
Landscaped areas feature native plants to support local biodiversity and reduce maintenance needs.
05
Flexible spaces within the layout allow for a variety of community uses and events, adapting as needed.
The architectural project under review represents a harmonious blend of modern design principles and functional requirements, serving as a clear reflection of current trends in sustainable architecture. The project’s design focuses on creating a space that promotes interaction and well-being, catering to both individual and community needs. As the project unfolds, it reveals a thoughtful consideration of the environment, local culture, and user engagement, elevating its significance within the broader context of contemporary architecture.

At its core, the project is designed to function as a multi-purpose facility. This versatility allows it to accommodate various activities and groups, enhancing its role within the community. The layout is meticulously crafted to facilitate smooth transitions between different areas, ensuring that users can easily navigate the space. The organization of rooms and communal areas speaks to the architecture's intention to foster collaboration and connection among occupants, enhancing not only aesthetic appeal but also social interaction.

One of the essential aspects of the architectural design is its interaction with the surrounding environment. The project prominently features large windows and openings that invite ample natural light, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This connection to the outdoors extends to landscaped areas that not only beautify the site but also contribute to environmental sustainability. Native plants are integrated into the landscape design, which supports local biodiversity while minimizing the need for extensive irrigation. Such considerations demonstrate the project’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, aligning with a growing movement toward sustainability in architecture.

Materiality is another focal point of the design. A range of materials has been thoughtfully selected to achieve both aesthetic and functional goals. Key materials include reinforced concrete, sustainably sourced timber, and glass, each chosen for its durability and performance characteristics. The concrete provides structural integrity, while the wood introduces warmth and texture, reinforcing a sense of comfort. Glass façades not only enhance the visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces but also reflect the environmental context, blurring the boundaries between architecture and nature. This material combination is paired with fixtures and finishes that reflect a minimalist aesthetic, allowing the design's inherent qualities to shine.

The architectural scheme embraces an array of innovative design approaches, particularly in its integration of passive design strategies. The building orientation has been planned to optimize solar gain while minimizing heat loss during colder months. This methodological consideration enhances energy efficiency and reduces reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. Alongside these strategies, the incorporation of green roofs serves a dual purpose of insulation and biodiversity support, showcasing the project’s commitment to ecological stewardship.

Unique to this architectural design is its adaptability. The spatial configuration allows for easy reconfiguration of spaces to accommodate various events and user needs. Movable partitions enable the transformation of larger areas into smaller, intimate spaces, ensuring that the building can cater to a wide range of functions, from community meetings to educational workshops. This flexibility marks a significant departure from traditional fixed-space designs, further enhancing the facility’s usability.

As one delves deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and details, a clearer understanding of the underlying principles and thought processes can be gleaned. These documents reveal how the project’s concept has been translated into tangible forms while addressing critical aspects of comfort, usability, and sustainability. They serve as a testament to the careful consideration that has informed each design decision, reflecting a holistic approach that merges form and function seamlessly.

The project stands not only as a functional space but also as a landmark in architectural innovation, encouraging exploration and engagement. It invites observers and potential users alike to appreciate the subtleties of design that prioritize community interaction and environmental sensitivity. To gain a fuller understanding of the project’s diverse elements and to appreciate the intricacies of its architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the presented architectural plans, sections, and designs, which offer further insights into this noteworthy endeavor.
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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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