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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Elevate Community Interaction in Sustainable Design

Authors:
Callie Tedder-hares, Shane Mccarthy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Elevate Community Interaction in Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this architectural endeavor fosters community connection through its thoughtfully designed multifunctional spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, optimizing structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, creating unique spatial dynamics and visual interest.
04
Integrates a green roof system, promoting biodiversity and reducing urban heat.
05
Includes smart technology for energy monitoring and environmental control, enhancing user experience.
The architectural project under analysis represents a thoughtful and contemporary approach to design, harmoniously integrating functionality and aesthetics. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this project serves as a multifunctional space that caters to both individual needs and community interaction. Its design stands as a testament to modern architectural principles, focusing on sustainability, connectivity, and cultural relevance.

The project encompasses a range of functions, including residential, commercial, and communal areas. This multipurpose approach reflects a growing trend in architecture where versatility is key to accommodating diverse user needs. The layout skillfully balances private spaces with open, communal environments, fostering a sense of community and encouraging social engagement. By providing areas for gatherings, activities, and relaxation, the design promotes a lifestyle that values both individual privacy and collective experiences.

One of the most important aspects of the project is its materiality. The selection of materials plays a critical role in enhancing the overall design and functionality. Reinforced concrete is used to establish a strong structural framework, while expansive glass facades invite natural light and create visual connections with the surrounding environment. This emphasis on transparency not only brightens interior spaces but also creates a dialogue between the architecture and its context, allowing occupants to feel engaged with their surroundings.

Wood, particularly in the form of teak or bamboo, adds warmth and tactility, bridging the gap between the coldness of concrete and the comfort of home. Steel is incorporated in various structural elements to provide durability and flexibility, facilitating open floor plans that respond to a variety of uses. Additionally, the choice of stone—whether limestone or granite—contributes to the overall grounding of the architectural expression, reflecting a permanence that anchors the structure within its landscape.

The project's unique design approaches set it apart from conventional architectural practices. One notable aspect is its dynamic facade system, which adjusts according to solar patterns to optimize energy efficiency. This responsiveness not only enhances the building's performance but also serves as an architectural feature that embodies the principles of sustainability. The integration of smart technologies further supports this aim, providing inhabitants with tools to monitor and control their living environments effectively.

Another significant design decision was the careful consideration of how the building relates to its landscape. Rather than imposing itself on the site, the architecture blends seamlessly with the natural features, employing techniques such as green roofs and landscaped terraces that allow for biodiversity and native plant integration. This biophilic approach encourages a deeper connection between the built environment and nature, ultimately promoting well-being among its occupants.

Throughout the project, attention to detail is evident in the thoughtful integration of spaces that facilitate flow and interaction. Wide walkways, inviting entrances, and strategically placed communal areas create a welcoming atmosphere. Furthermore, the architectural design encourages fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the overall user experience and reinforcing the connection to the community and its surroundings.

As this project demonstrates, modern architecture is not only about aesthetics but also about cultivating spaces where people can thrive. By prioritizing adaptable designs that respond to the needs of the community and the environment, this architectural endeavor embodies the principles of thoughtful design in our contemporary society.

For those interested in exploring this project further, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, additional insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this project are readily available in the presentation materials. Engaging with these resources will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the architectural philosophy and the innovative solutions that define this noteworthy project.
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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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