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

Authors:
Enrique Casas Caram, Eli Saadia Jinich
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Community-Centric Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Residents and visitors are welcomed into a community hub where charred wooden shingles harmonize with cross-laminated timber panels, creating an inviting space for cultural events and learning experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to enhance sustainability.
02
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetics.
04
Includes modular spaces that can be easily reconfigured for various functions.
05
Integrates native landscaping to promote local biodiversity and environmental harmony.
This architectural project represents thoughtfulness in design, blending innovative ideas with practical functions tailored to its environment. The design embodies a commitment to creating a space that not only serves its intended purpose but also enriches the lives of those who interact with it.

At its core, the project seeks to facilitate community engagement while ensuring sustainability. It functions as a multi-use facility, designed to accommodate various activities ranging from cultural events to educational programs. This versatility reflects a modern understanding of architecture, where spaces are no longer defined strictly by single uses but instead cater to diverse community needs.

The layout exhibits a keen awareness of flow and spatial relationships. Open-plan areas are strategically incorporated alongside more intimate spaces, fostering a sense of connection among users while providing opportunities for privacy and focused activity. The integration of both indoor and outdoor areas creates a seamless transition that promotes natural ventilation and light diffusion, enhancing overall well-being.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in the project’s identity. A thoughtful combination of materials such as reinforced concrete, glass, timber, and steel evokes warmth and durability. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone, providing robustness and stability, while expansive glass panels invite natural light and connect the interior with the surrounding landscape. This play of transparency not only amplifies the spatial experience but also emphasizes a relationship with the exterior environment.

Timber elements soften the overall aesthetic, bringing a touch of nature indoors. These materials are chosen not only for their aesthetic value but also for their sustainability credentials, aligning with the contemporary values of environmental responsibility. Steel accents enhance structural integrity and play a critical role in the overall design language, creating a balance between raw industrial resources and natural elements.

The design showcases unique approaches, such as the incorporation of green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems, which reflect a commitment to ecological design principles. These features contribute to the building’s sustainability and reduce its ecological footprint, aligning it with contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize environmental stewardship. The integration of native landscaping around the facility further enhances its ecological impact, supporting local biodiversity and fostering a sense of place.

The project also considers user experience in its spatial organization, with spaces that encourage interaction while also promoting creativity and learning. Areas designed for workshops and classes are easily accessible, promoting a sense of community engagement. The thoughtful placement of communal spaces acts as a catalyst for social interaction, reinforcing the building’s role as a civic hub.

In visual terms, the architectural design incorporates clean lines and an understated elegance, steering clear of unnecessary ornamentation. This simplicity is reflected in the choice of color palette, predominantly neutral tones with splashes of natural hues from the materials themselves. Such a design approach not only ensures a timeless quality but also allows for evolving interpretations over time.

In exploring this architectural project further, one can appreciate the nuances present in the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that were integral to its development. The comprehensive presentation of these elements will provide deeper insights into the project’s intention and execution. Understanding these details enhances appreciation for modern architectural practices that strive for harmony between form, function, and environment. Readers are encouraged to engage with the project presentation to explore these elements fully and appreciate the thoughtful design decisions that have shaped this community-focused space.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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