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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Elevate Sustainable Living in Community Spaces

Authors:
Alejandro Borrachia, Ambra Pecile, Linda Roveredo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Elevate Sustainable Living in Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this sustainable living space reimagines community engagement through agricultural integration and expansive open layouts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a rooftop garden designed for urban agriculture, providing residents with a sustainable food source.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles that enhance durability while creating a visually appealing façade.
03
Incorporates open floor plans that promote social interaction and fluid movement between spaces.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for both structural integrity and improved thermal performance.
05
Includes large glass panels for maximum natural light and seamless connection to the surrounding landscape.
The architectural project, AlimenTaria, presents a thoughtful reflection on contemporary living, characterized by its integration of sustainability and modern functionality. Situated in a tranquil landscape that showcases the beauty of local flora and waterways, the design of AlimenTaria aims to redefine how inhabitants connect with their environment while reinforcing a sense of community. The project champions the idea of a lifestyle steeped in agricultural practices, merging traditional farmstead values with innovative design principles suited for modern requirements.

At the core of AlimenTaria lies a commitment to creating a space that nurtures both individual and collective experiences. The architecture embodies a rectangular form complemented by a gently sloping roof, reminiscent of classic agricultural buildings. This choice of form not only serves aesthetic purposes but also facilitates optimal air flow and natural lighting throughout the interior spaces, promoting energy efficiency. The overall configuration of the building consists of two stories, with the ground floor serving practical functions such as kitchens and communal dining areas, while the upper level is dedicated to living spaces that seamlessly connect with gardens.

One notable aspect of AlimenTaria's design is the incorporation of a rooftop garden. This innovative feature extends the usability of the living space, enabling residents to engage in urban agriculture while offering a serene retreat that naturally interacts with the surrounding environment. This approach significantly enhances biodiversity and underlines the project's dedication to sustainability by providing a source for fresh produce directly at the residents' fingertips.

Material selection in AlimenTaria further underscores its environmental philosophy. A predominant use of wood lends warmth to the structure, while large glass panels invite abundant natural light and provide an unobstructed view of the exterior landscape. Elements of corrugated metal roofing add strength and durability, essential for optimizing rainwater management, while local stone integrates the building with its contextual surroundings, ensuring that it feels at home within the landscape.

Unique design elements are present throughout the project. The open floor plan facilitates smooth transitions between internal spaces, promoting fluidity and communication among inhabitants. By thoughtfully organizing living areas and communal spaces, AlimenTaria actively fosters interpersonal interactions in an era where community connections have become increasingly vital. This multifaceted approach not only addresses the practical needs of modern families but also cultivates an atmosphere of inclusivity and collaboration.

In essence, AlimenTaria serves as a model for future residential architecture that aspires to harmonize living with ecological considerations and social dynamics. It challenges conventional notions of space utilization and promotes a sustainable lifestyle while making cultural references that resonate with agrarian traditions. Interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project’s architectural plans, sections, and designs to uncover how AlimenTaria articulates its vision of community-oriented living set within a sustainable framework. By exploring the intricacies of this project, one can appreciate the various architectural ideas that contribute to its overall success.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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