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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Urban Hub

Author:
Gaetano Marcanio
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Sustainable Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through the use of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates seamlessly with its urban context to create a vibrant community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project features an innovative bent A-frame design that optimizes space while enhancing structural integrity.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide a distinctive aesthetic but also improve weather resistance and longevity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce the building's carbon footprint by utilizing renewable materials and promoting sustainability.
04
The landscaping incorporates native flora, reinforcing ecological balance and reducing maintenance needs.
05
Community spaces are strategically placed to foster interaction, supporting social cohesion among users.
The architectural project presents a thoughtful integration of form and function, designed to respond to both its context and the needs of its users. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this project serves as a multi-purpose space, embodying the principles of contemporary architecture while paying homage to its surroundings. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability, community engagement, and innovative use of materials, resulting in a structure that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.

At its core, the project represents a dialogue between the built environment and the natural landscape. The architecture is shaped to enhance the user experience, with spaces that encourage interaction and promote well-being. Natural light floods the interior, emphasizing the connection between outside and inside, and the layout is designed to facilitate movement and foster social engagement. By featuring open-plan areas alongside more intimate spaces, the design caters to a variety of activities, from collaborative work to solitary reflection.

One of the significant aspects of this project is its unique approach to materiality. Thoughtfully chosen materials, such as reinforced concrete, low-emissivity glass, sustainably sourced timber, and locally sourced limestone, not only contribute to the building's durability but also create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The combination of these elements produces a façade that is visually dynamic, with transparency and solidity working in harmony to define the architectural language of the project. This careful selection of materials reflects a broader commitment to sustainability, targeting energy efficiency and environmental impact both during construction and throughout the building’s lifecycle.

Particular attention has been paid to the functionality of spaces within the project. The internal layout is intuitively organized, allowing for seamless navigation from one area to another. Features such as communal areas, breakout spaces, and conference rooms have been designed with flexibility in mind, accommodating a range of activities and fostering creativity. This adaptability is essential in meeting the diverse needs of users, ensuring that the architecture remains responsive to changing demands over time.

Unique design approaches have been employed to enhance the building's relationship with its environment. The integration of green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems exemplifies a commitment to ecological design, reducing the building’s footprint and promoting biodiversity. Moreover, the landscaping is thoughtfully executed, using indigenous plants to strengthen the connection to the local context while also creating inviting outdoor spaces for users.

The architectural design also places importance on accessibility and inclusivity, ensuring that the project can be comfortably used by individuals of all abilities. Wide pathways, appropriate signage, and accessible entrances ensure that all users can navigate the building without barriers, reinforcing the idea that architecture should serve everyone within the community.

This project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful architectural design in creating spaces that not only meet functional requirements but also inspire and uplift their users. By prioritizing sustainability, materiality, and user experience, the design reflects a progressive approach to architecture that resonates deeply within its context. For those intrigued by the specifics of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and various architectural ideas, exploring the detailed presentation will offer a deeper insight into the intentions behind its design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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