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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Community Hub in Urban Context

Authors:
Valentina Risemberg, Gabriel Fejzulla
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Community Hub in Urban Context

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the community hub seamlessly integrates with its urban landscape while providing versatile spaces for gathering, learning, and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a unique combination of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
It features large, strategically placed windows that optimize natural light and connect interior spaces with the surrounding landscape.
03
Adaptable interior spaces utilize movable partitions, allowing for various configurations to accommodate different community activities.
04
A green roof is integrated into the design, promoting biodiversity and providing natural insulation while enhancing the building's sustainability.
05
The bent A-frame design not only adds visual interest but also facilitates effective rainwater management and structural stability.
This architectural project demonstrates a thoughtful synthesis of form, function, and environmental context, resulting in a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Nestled in a landscape that blends urban and natural elements, this project is a testament to contemporary architectural practices that prioritize harmony with the surroundings while addressing the needs of its users.

The project represents a purposeful integration of spaces designed to foster community interaction and individual reflection. With a primary function as a multi-use facility, it encompasses areas for gathering, learning, and leisure. The layout is carefully arranged to facilitate movement and interaction, with public spaces flowing seamlessly into more intimate areas. This organizational strategy not only enhances usability but also encourages spontaneous social interactions, fostering a sense of community among its occupants.

Key architectural details are evident throughout the design. The structure features a mixture of open and enclosed spaces, allowing for a variety of functions to coexist. Large windows provide ample natural light, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. These openings frame views of the surrounding landscape, inviting nature into the building and creating a connection with the environment. This relationship is further emphasized by the incorporation of terraces and green roofs, which not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also improve the building's ecological performance.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the overall design narrative. The use of locally sourced materials reflects a commitment to sustainability while resonating with the regional architectural vernacular. Textured masonry walls serve as a grounding element, providing a robust backdrop for the lighter, more transparent structures that comprise the upper levels. A careful selection of natural materials, including timber and stone, contributes to a warm and inviting atmosphere, while high-performance glazing ensures energy efficiency. This attention to material choices reinforces the project’s focus on sustainability and adaptability to its environment.

Unique aspects of this project include its innovative approach to spatial organization and its emphasis on creating versatile spaces. For instance, movable partitions within the main event space allow for flexible configurations, accommodating varying group sizes and functions. This adaptability ensures that the facility can meet the changing needs of the community over time. Additionally, the design thoughtfully incorporates elements of biophilic design, promoting wellness through natural light, vegetation, and organic forms.

The architectural design also includes features focused on accessibility and inclusivity. Wide circulation paths and thoughtfully placed entrances ensure that all users can navigate the space comfortably, while sensory-friendly materials enhance the experience for individuals with diverse needs. By prioritizing accessibility, the project not only meets regulatory requirements but also reflects a broader commitment to social responsibility.

As the project evolves within its context, its innovative design approach and attentiveness to user experience position it as an architectural benchmark in the area. The careful consideration of both functional and aesthetic dimensions allows for a rich interaction with its environment, building community ties and enhancing social cohesion.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural aspects of this project, examining the architectural plans, sections, designs, and conceptual ideas is highly recommended. These documents provide critical insights into the thought process behind the design and reveal how its unique elements work in concert to create a cohesive architectural expression. Engaging with these resources will further illustrate the project’s potential impact and its significance within the contemporary architectural landscape.
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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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