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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Elevate Flexible Housing Solutions

Authors:
Yvonne Fu, Celine yuan Li, Paulina Avilez, Santiago Cuesta
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Elevate Flexible Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design redefines affordable housing by offering flexible living spaces that evolve with their inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability while offering a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Flexible unit configurations allow residents to adapt their living spaces as family dynamics change over time.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while promoting sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
04
The bent A-frame design not only contributes to a unique architectural profile but also optimizes interior space utilization.
05
Community-focused features, such as shared outdoor areas, encourage social interaction among residents.
The project at hand exemplifies an innovative approach to affordable housing, designed with a clear emphasis on flexibility and community integration. This architectural endeavor seeks to address the growing demand for accessible living spaces in urban areas while fostering an environment conducive to social interaction and environmental sustainability. At its core, the design represents a thoughtful dialogue between modern architectural practices and the urgent need for adaptable residential solutions.

The primary function of this project is to provide a range of affordable housing options that can evolve alongside their residents. The design contemplates various future scenarios, empowering inhabitants to grow, modify, or downsize their living spaces as their circumstances change. This approach not only recognizes the realities of family dynamics and urban living but also contributes to a more resilient community structure.

In terms of important components, the architectural design showcases a variety of residential units, ranging from one to three bedrooms. Each unit is configured to allow for easy alterations, supporting the idea that homes should be able to adapt to their occupants' needs over time. Large windows and balconies integrate outdoor spaces seamlessly, enhancing the livability of each unit with ample natural light and ventilation. These features also encourage residents to embrace the surrounding environment, bridging the gap between indoor comfort and outdoor experiences.

A standout aspect of the project is its commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of materials such as wood, glass, and steel not only offers durability but also aligns with environmentally conscious practices. Wood panels serve as structural elements, providing warmth and aesthetic appeal, while large glass windows create a sense of openness and connection with nature. The use of steel as a core material ensures structural integrity, allowing for future expansions or modifications without compromising safety.

Moreover, the design includes communal outdoor spaces and green terraces, which are essential for fostering social cohesion among residents. These areas are thoughtfully integrated into the overall layout, encouraging connections and interaction while providing spaces for relaxation and recreation. The emphasis on community-focused design demonstrates an understanding of the importance of social ties in urban living environments.

The project also embraces a growth model that visualizes the evolution of both the structure and its occupants over time. This foresight allows stakeholders to contemplate a 20-year horizon, illustrating how the architecture can adapt to changing demographics and lifestyles. By presenting this dynamic approach, the project effectively responds to an increasingly mobile population and the shifting nature of urban communities.

The unique design strategies employed here move beyond conventional architectural approaches, exploring new avenues for affordable housing solutions. The project combines thoughtful design with practicality, creating living spaces that prioritize both functionality and the well-being of their inhabitants. The architecture encourages community engagement and sustainability, reflecting an acute awareness of current social and environmental challenges.

For those interested in delving deeper into this thoughtful architectural endeavor, the project presentation offers a wealth of information including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. Reviewing these elements will provide valuable insights into the innovative ideas that have shaped this project and its potential impact on future housing solutions. Whether you are an architect, a student, or simply someone passionate about design, exploring this project presents an opportunity to engage with contemporary architectural practices that prioritize affordability and community.
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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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