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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in Stepped Residential Courtyards

Author:
Ali Andaji garmaroodi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in Stepped Residential Courtyards

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design seamlessly integrates stepped courtyards to enhance community interaction and promote sustainable urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles as a fire-resistant cladding option.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics.
04
Designed with stepped courtyards to foster community interaction and green integration.
05
Employs permeable paving to manage rainwater and reduce urban runoff.
The project "Housing Among Stepped Courtyards" is an architectural initiative located in Berlin, Germany. This design aims to address urban housing challenges by integrating residential units within a framework of landscaped courtyards. Through modular design, it facilitates residential diversity while promoting ecological sustainability. This project represents an intersection of functionality and green architecture, providing a practical solution to urban living.

The primary function of the project is to offer modern housing while enhancing communal interaction and connecting residents with nature. This design utilizes a stepped layout, creating a fluid transition between living spaces and outdoor areas. The courtyards serve as communal zones that foster social engagement among residents. Each residential unit combines the need for privacy with access to shared amenities, providing a balanced living environment.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the notable aspects of "Housing Among Stepped Courtyards" is its focus on green integration. Unlike typical urban developments, this project emphasizes the importance of landscaped areas by incorporating gardens and green roofs into its layout. This approach not only improves the aesthetic quality but also aids in urban cooling and biodiversity enhancement.

The modular design of the housing units allows for varied configurations, accommodating different family sizes and living situations. Each unit is designed for flexibility, which presents opportunities for customization. This adaptability ensures a responsive structure that meets the evolving needs of the inhabitants.

Community-focused design is paramount in this project. The careful placement of staircases, bridges, and paths encourages movement throughout the site, facilitating interactions among residents. Public amenities such as recreational areas within the courtyards further support an engaged community life by offering spaces for leisure and gatherings.

Sustainability is another critical component of the architectural strategy. The choice of materials prioritizes eco-friendly options, focusing on wood, concrete, and glass that promote durability and reduce environmental impact. Green roofs are designed to manage rainwater, enhance insulation, and create habitats for local flora and fauna.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural concepts employed in "Housing Among Stepped Courtyards," it is encouraged to explore the project presentation, which includes detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. This deeper look reveals the intricate considerations made in developing the design, reflecting innovative architectural ideas tailored for modern urban life.
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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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