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

Authors:
Mohamed Sulaiman Haj Bakour, Michel Wassouf
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and distinctive cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, serving as a vibrant community hub that encourages social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The charred wooden shingles provide a durable, fire-resistant exterior while enhancing the building's aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were utilized for their structural efficiency and sustainability, reducing the project's carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while allowing for unique roof lines that create visual interest.
04
Green roofs integrated into the design contribute to biodiversity and help regulate indoor temperatures.
05
The layout prioritizes communal spaces, fostering a sense of community and encouraging user interaction.
The project under review showcases a thoughtful approach to architectural design, integrating functionality with aesthetic considerations in a manner that is both innovative and respectful of its surroundings. The architecture embodies a seamless balance between form and function, creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also serve the needs of their users. The overall design concept centers on the idea of harmonizing with nature while utilizing contemporary materials and techniques to enhance livability.

The project serves as a multipurpose facility, designed to accommodate various activities and gatherings. This functional versatility is essential in modern architecture, where the ability to adapt spaces for different uses can significantly increase the value and usability of a structure. The design includes communal areas, private spaces, and outdoor zones that encourage interaction and engagement among users while providing areas for quiet reflection.

A unique aspect of the project is its materiality, which reflects a careful selection process aimed at sustainability and durability. The primary materials used include reinforced concrete, glass, and timber, each chosen for its specific properties and contribution to the building’s performance. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone, providing stability and resilience, while large glass panels create a visual connection to the exterior environment, inviting natural light and views into the interior spaces. Timber elements not only add warmth but also enhance the acoustic properties of the building, creating a more inviting atmosphere.

The architectural design incorporates a variety of unique features that distinguish it from typical projects. One noteworthy element is the integration of green roofs and living walls, which not only improve the aesthetic quality of the building but also contribute to sustainability goals. These features promote biodiversity, aid in temperature regulation, and improve air quality, aligning with the growing trend in architecture that emphasizes ecological responsibility.

Furthermore, the spatial organization within the project reflects a deep understanding of user experience. The layout is carefully crafted to ensure smooth circulation, allowing for ease of movement between different areas while fostering a sense of community. Windows and openings are strategically placed to maximize daylighting and ensure cross-ventilation, enhancing the overall comfort for its occupants. The design also considers accessibility, ensuring that all areas are reachable for individuals with different abilities.

In terms of architectural expression, the project displays a contemporary aesthetic that blends with its context. The interplay between solid and void creates dynamic facades that shift in appearance throughout the day as the light changes. This responsiveness to light not only enhances the visual quality but also contributes to the overall energy efficiency of the building, reflecting modern architectural practices that prioritize environmental sustainability.

Distinct architectural ideas are present throughout the project, showcasing a commitment to exploring new design languages while respecting traditional forms. This can be seen in the rooflines that draw inspiration from local vernacular architecture, but reinterpret those shapes using modern materials and techniques. By bridging past and present, the project speaks to a broader narrative of architectural evolution within the region.

The overall impact of the project extends beyond its physical attributes; it also generates social value by creating a space that fosters community engagement and interaction. Its thoughtful design encourages use and accessibility for all, making it a vital part of the neighborhood fabric. This reflects a growing awareness in architecture of the role buildings play in community identity and well-being.

For those interested in delving deeper into the nuances of this architectural project, exploring the specific architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide further insights into the intricate details and design ideas at play. This analysis serves as an invitation for readers to engage with the project directly, appreciating not only its aesthetic qualities but also its contributions to contemporary architectural discourse.
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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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