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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Flexible Communal Living Spaces

Authors:
The quang Ngo, Hoang minh Tran, Ngoc anh Chu thi, Viet anh Pham
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Flexible Communal Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles with cross-laminated timber panels, this design fosters adaptable communal living that emphasizes both sustainability and community engagement in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels to promote rapid assembly and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior flexibility and natural light.
04
Incorporates shared communal spaces to foster resident collaboration and interaction.
05
Accessible design elements ensure inclusivity for diverse community members.
The architectural project titled "Open Sesame" presents a thoughtful exploration of communal living within an urban environment, specifically set in the vibrant city of Berlin. This design represents a conscious response to the pressing need for affordable housing and a stronger sense of community amidst the complexities of modern urban life. By focusing on the interplay between individual expression and collective functionality, the project seeks to redefine how people inhabit and interact with their living environments, ultimately cultivating a greater sense of belonging.

At the heart of the project is a skeleton framework that serves as the backbone of the architecture. This approach allows for both structural integrity and spatial flexibility, enabling the design to respond dynamically to the varying needs of its residents. The modularity inherent in the design permits adjustments over time, accommodating changes in demographics and lifestyle without sacrificing efficiency or aesthetic appeal. This adaptability makes "Open Sesame" particularly relevant in a rapidly evolving urban setting.

Key to the project is its emphasis on community engagement spaces, thoughtfully incorporated throughout the design. These communal areas promote interaction among residents and facilitate socialization. By including features like shared gardens, workshops, and open-air markets, the design creates opportunities for individuals to connect and collaborate. This aspect is vital for fostering a sense of community, particularly in a culturally diverse metropolis like Berlin, where the interactions of different backgrounds can lead to enrichment and growth.

The architectural design also pays careful attention to circulation patterns within the space. Pathways are structured to encourage fluid movement between private units and shared spaces, paving the way for spontaneous encounters and interactions. This design philosophy recognizes that architecture is not simply about sheltering individuals; it plays an essential role in how people navigate their surroundings and build relationships with one another.

Material choice further enhances the project's goals of sustainability and connectivity. A primary focus on sustainable timber illustrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact while providing a warm and inviting aesthetic. The incorporation of other materials, such as glass for facades to enhance natural light, creates a harmonious blend that resonates with the urban context while maintaining a modern and clean appearance. This attention to materials not only contributes to the project's sustainability aims but also allows the building to integrate visually and functionally into its surroundings.

One of the unique design approaches found in "Open Sesame" is the way it seeks to balance individual privacy with communal living. Each residential unit is designed to provide personal space while still feeling connected to the larger community. This dual emphasis is crucial for accommodating the diverse lifestyles of urban dwellers, who often seek both solitude and social interaction. The design prompts a reflection on what it means to live in a shared environment while maintaining personal autonomy, an increasingly important consideration in contemporary architecture.

As a response to Berlin's rich architectural heritage, "Open Sesame" navigates the delicate tension between honoring historical contexts and embracing modernity. The design establishes a dialogue with the city, integrating its unique character while providing a new model for urban living. By marrying innovative design with practical functions, the project outlines a holistic approach to housing that addresses contemporary issues facing many urban centers.

For those interested in delving deeper into this architectural endeavor, the presentation of "Open Sesame" showcases an array of architectural plans, sections, and designs that illuminate various aspects of the project. Exploring these elements will provide invaluable insight into the underlying architectural ideas that make this design a meaningful contribution to the discourse on affordable and community-oriented urban living. Engaging with the project through its detailed presentations offers a comprehensive understanding of how thoughtful architectural solutions can address pressing societal needs while remaining sensitive to the complexities of city 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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