Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Modern Community Retreat

Authors:
Shiyen Wu, Jun-han Huang, Pei-shan Chen, CHUN-TENG LIN
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Modern Community Retreat

Project in-detail

With a distinctive façade of charred wooden shingles and expanses of cross-laminated timber, this community space elegantly merges sustainable design with functionality, creating a welcoming environment for social interaction and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration and enhanced spatial dynamics.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and improved fire resistance for the building.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction while ensuring structural integrity.
04
Vertical gardens integrated into the façade promote biodiversity and improve air quality around the space.
05
Thoughtfully designed communal areas encourage social interaction while maintaining individual privacy zones.
The project represents a thoughtful exploration of modern architectural design, seamlessly integrating functionality with a clear aesthetic vision. Located in a context that appreciates both innovation and sustainability, this architectural endeavor covers various aspects of design that contribute to its overall significance and usability.

Architecturally, the project is characterized by its commitment to a minimalist yet welcoming approach. The design prioritizes open spaces and natural light, utilizing large windows and strategically placed skylights to enhance the interior ambiance. This approach reflects a contemporary way of living that values both connection to the outdoors and a sense of spaciousness within urban environments. The integration of indoor and outdoor elements not only maximizes the usability of the area but also encourages an interaction with the surrounding landscape, forming a dialogue between the building and its environment.

The materials used in this project have been carefully selected to align with both environmental considerations and the aesthetic priorities of the design. Predominantly, the structure incorporates reinforced concrete for its durability and stability, while warm wooden finishes are employed to soften the overall appearance and add a touch of natural warmth to the interiors. Glass is abundantly utilized, allowing for transparency that blurs the boundaries between inside and outside. Furthermore, the project features elements such as sustainable cladding materials, natural stone, and metal accents, each chosen not only for their visual appeal but also for their characteristics in promoting energy efficiency and longevity.

Functionally, the project addresses diverse needs and activities of contemporary life, offering a mix of private and communal spaces. The floor plan is an open concept, combining living, dining, and kitchen areas that facilitate social interaction while providing essential privacy through strategically placed partition elements. Importantly, areas designated for work and leisure have been thoughtfully integrated, reflecting a modern lifestyle where flexibility and adaptability are paramount. The design showcases how spatial organization can enhance productivity and comfort, catering to the evolving ways in which spaces are utilized.

Unique design approaches are evident in several aspects of the project, particularly in the way landscaping has been woven into the architectural fabric. The integration of green roofs and vertical gardens not only enhances the aesthetic value but also plays a crucial role in stormwater management and thermal regulation. This ecological aspect demonstrates a growing awareness in architecture regarding the importance of sustainability and environmental responsibility. The project also capitalizes on passive heating and cooling strategies, reducing reliance on mechanical systems and emphasizing an environmentally-conscious approach to temperature regulation.

In summary, this architectural project is a reflection of contemporary design principles that prioritize sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic clarity. Its emphasis on open spaces, thoughtful material choices, and ecological integration positions it as a noteworthy example of modern architecture. For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the ingenious architectural plans, sections, and designs that underpin this project, further exploration of the presentation is encouraged. Engaging with the specific architectural ideas and visual representations will undoubtedly provide valuable insights into the careful planning and consideration that characterize this innovative endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy