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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living Space

Author:
Pierre-augustin Jean Boucton
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Defined by charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this urban community space seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with a design that fosters social interaction and environmental consciousness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and increase energy efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and encourages air circulation.
04
Includes a green roof to promote biodiversity and assist with rainwater management.
05
Integrates communal gardens designed for urban farming and community gatherings.
The architectural project under analysis stands as a significant contribution to contemporary design, reflecting a thoughtful approach to both functionality and aesthetics within its specific context. Nestled in a vibrant urban environment, the project embodies a careful integration of modern architectural ideas with the cultural narrative of its location, ensuring it responds adeptly to community needs while offering a fresh interpretation of local design language.

At its core, the project serves multiple functions, aimed at enhancing the user experience through its blend of residential, commercial, and communal spaces. The design prioritizes accessibility, featuring wide walkways and strategically placed entrances that invite interaction. This thoughtful organization not only facilitates movement but also encourages social engagement, allowing residents and visitors to navigate seamlessly through shared spaces.

The architectural approach is characterized by its clean lines and thoughtful materiality, showcasing a harmonious balance between built structures and the natural environment. The façade presents an interplay of textures, with a combination of concrete, treated wood, and glass, each chosen for its durability and aesthetic contribution. The use of large glass panels invites abundant natural light into the interiors, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. This transparency also fosters a connection between indoors and outdoors, allowing occupants to experience the dynamics of the surrounding landscape.

One of the project's most notable features is its sustainable design elements, which include a green roof and solar panels that minimize energy consumption and make effective use of available resources. The green roof not only enhances biodiversity by providing a habitat for local species but also contributes to better insulation and rainwater management. This sustainable focus underscores an increasingly important aspect of modern architecture, where design solutions must acknowledge environmental impact and promote resilience.

In terms of layout, the project employs a series of interconnected spaces that promote fluidity and adaptability. Each zone is defined yet interlinked, allowing occupants to transition from private areas to public spaces without rigid boundaries. This concept of openness is reflected in the communal gardens and terrace areas, designed to foster community interaction and environmental stewardship. These areas serve as vital social hubs, reinforcing a sense of belonging among users and providing opportunities for collaboration and exchange.

Unique design approaches within the project include the integration of biophilic elements, which enhance the user's connection to nature. Strategic placement of greenery, both inside and outside, creates a sense of calm and well-being, responding to the urban context's often frenetic pace. This emphasis on natural elements extends to the choice of materials, carefully selected not just for their aesthetic qualities but also for their environmental credentials. The architectural designs encourage occupants to engage with their surroundings, promoting a lifestyle that values nature and community.

As a culmination of these various elements, the project stands not merely as a built environment but as a thoughtful response to the interplay between architecture and its setting. It invites users to explore the intricacies of urban living while fostering a deeper connection with both the space and one another. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative architectural ideas that make this project unique, further exploration of the project's presentation is encouraged. Engaging with the visual and technical details can provide valuable insights into the philosophy and execution of this impactful architectural endeavor.
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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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