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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Comprising a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Husna Adil Osman Elbashir, Malak Mohamedahmed Abdelrahim Mohamedahmed
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Comprising a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this sustainable community hub seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces to foster collaboration and connection among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for both durability and a unique visual texture.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide rapid assembly while ensuring energy efficiency.
04
An extensive green roof contributes to biodiversity and helps manage stormwater.
05
The layout integrates communal gathering spaces with private areas, fostering community interaction.
The architectural project in question showcases a thoughtful exploration of space, materiality, and function, culminating in a design that harmoniously blends with its surroundings. Located in a contextually rich landscape, the project aims to create an interactive environment that serves both its immediate users and the broader community. The design reflects a commitment to sustainable practices, local culture, and innovative architectural solutions.

At its core, this project represents a profound understanding of the relationship between built forms and their natural context. It offers a functional space that encourages engagement and interaction. The architectural layout is carefully crafted to facilitate flow and accessibility, ensuring that all areas are interconnected while also providing moments of privacy and retreat. The design embraces an open floor plan that fosters collaboration and social interaction, while strategically placed private nooks allow for quiet contemplation or focused work.

The materiality of the project is particularly noteworthy. A palette of locally sourced materials has been selected to enhance the overall aesthetic while promoting sustainability. Key materials used include:

- **Reinforced Concrete**: For structural elements, providing strength and durability.
- **Timber**: Used in cladding and interior finishes to create warmth and a connection to nature.
- **Glass**: Employed extensively to invite natural light into the spaces and offer views of the surrounding landscape.
- **Steel**: Used for framing and as an accent material, adding a modern touch to the design.
- **Natural Stone**: Incorporated in select areas for both structural and decorative purposes, reinforcing a sense of place.

Each of these materials has been chosen not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its functional attributes. The use of glass, for example, maximizes daylighting while providing occupants with a visual link to the outdoors, enhancing their experience within the space. The texture and warmth of timber add a tactile dimension to the interior, creating inviting environments conducive to various activities.

In terms of architectural design strategies, the project incorporates passive design principles, such as optimizing orientation for natural ventilation and daylighting. The roof design features overhangs that protect against direct sunlight while allowing light to penetrate deep into the building. This attention to climate-responsive design allows for energy efficiency, reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling systems.

Unique design approaches are evident in several features throughout the project. For instance, outdoor spaces are seamlessly integrated with indoor areas, creating an illusion of expanded living space. Terraces and balconies provide opportunities for interaction with the landscape, while also serving as buffer zones that enhance privacy. These outdoor elements not only enrich the occupant experience but also contribute to the building's ecological footprint by promoting biodiversity through green roofs or walls.

The architectural ideas embodied in this project extend beyond aesthetics; they encompass a narrative that connects the structure to its environment, drawing inspiration from local culture and history. This narrative is communicated through design elements that reflect regional architectural styles while incorporating modern aesthetics, creating a dialogue between the old and the new.

Overall, this architectural project stands as a testament to thoughtful design that prioritizes user experience, sustainability, and contextuality. The careful selection of materials, innovative spatial configurations, and the integration of outdoor and indoor environments highlight a comprehensive approach to architecture that may serve as a model for future projects.

For a deeper understanding of the project's innovations and design intricacies, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Engaging with the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide an even richer glimpse into this compelling architectural endeavor.
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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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