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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define A Self-Sustaining Circular Community

Authors:
Milica Ninkovic, Dajana Ostojic
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define A Self-Sustaining Circular Community

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design fosters a harmonious blend of modern sustainability and communal living within a circular layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the circular layout.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
Includes flexible modular living units that adapt to changing community needs.
05
Promotes energy independence through the integration of solar panels and wind turbines.
The architectural project revolves around a circular complex designed as a self-sustaining community, integrating residential, recreational, and workspaces. This layout promotes community interaction and environmental integration, reflecting contemporary trends in sustainable design. The design emphasizes an organized spatial configuration that maximizes sunlight and ventilation while minimizing the ecological footprint.

Unique Design Approaches and Functionality

This project features a circular layout that serves multiple functional zones including residential, communal, and workspace areas. The residential units are strategically placed around a central communal area, which includes facilities such as a swimming pool, dining hall, and health club. This spatial arrangement fosters social cohesion and encourages active participation within the community.

The architectural design employs modular living concepts, allowing for flexibility in unit configurations. This innovation addresses varying family sizes and lifestyle requirements. Additionally, the environment employs sustainable materials, including wood, stone, and metal. Each material has been selected for its performance characteristics and its low environmental impact, aligning with the project's sustainability goals.

A notable feature of the design is the incorporation of a rainwater harvesting system, demonstrating a commitment to resource management. Solar panels and wind turbines are integrated throughout the complex to provide energy independence, enhancing the project's self-sustainability.

Sustainability Measures and Integration with Nature

The project emphasizes harmonizing built structures with their natural surroundings. The use of natural materials supports the aesthetic appeal while contributing to the thermal efficiency of the complex. By utilizing stone for thermal mass and wood for its low carbon footprint, the design not only achieves functionality but also aligns with principles of environmental responsibility.

The design includes spaces conducive to diverse activities with an emphasis on adaptability. The layout allows for the reconfiguration of communal and private areas in response to varying community needs. This level of flexibility is critical for maintaining the project's long-term viability and relevance.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this architectural project, we encourage you to review the architectural plans, sections, and design elements presented, to gain further insights into its conceptual framework and execution.
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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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