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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Engagement in Modern Design

Author:
Luca Mazzieri
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Engagement in Modern Design

Project in-detail

Featuring charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design fosters a seamless integration of nature and community, serving as a versatile space for gatherings and learning.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally-sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that allow for rapid assembly and environmental sustainability.
03
Includes a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and creates dynamic interior spaces.
04
Integrates vertical greenery to promote biodiversity and improve air quality within urban settings.
05
Designed with flexible layouts to accommodate a variety of community activities and events.
The architectural project under analysis represents a sophisticated interplay between functionality and aesthetics, exemplifying modern sensibilities while honoring its contextual backdrop. The overall design serves as a multi-faceted space intended to facilitate both public engagement and private reflection, establishing itself as not only a physical structure but also a community landmark. With an emphasis on sustainability, this project employs both innovative design strategies and carefully selected materials to create a harmonious relationship between the building and its surroundings.

Upon entering the building, one is immediately struck by the thoughtful layout, which encourages movement and interaction among visitors. The floor plan is organized to maximize natural light and promote a sense of openness. Large windows flood the interior with sunlight, enhancing the connection between the indoor environment and the external landscape. This design consideration not only improves the ambiance of the spaces but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, thereby supporting the project's sustainability goals.

In terms of materiality, the project embraces a palette that reflects regional characteristics and promotes durability. Key materials used in the construction include locally sourced timber, which provides warmth and enhances the tactile experience of the architecture. Complementing the timber are materials such as reinforced concrete and glass, employed strategically to create a balance between solidity and transparency. This combination of materials not only reinforces the structure's stability but also invites a dialogue between the solid and the ephemeral, creating spaces that feel both grounded and airy.

One of the more unique aspects of the design is its incorporation of green spaces within and around the building. Rooftop gardens and vertical greenery serve multiple purposes: they provide aesthetic value, contribute to biodiversity, and help regulate building temperature. These design elements are not merely ornamental; they demonstrate an acute awareness of ecological concerns and the importance of integrating nature into urban environments. By prioritizing such green initiatives, the project aligns itself with contemporary architectural ideas that advocate for environmental responsibility.

Furthermore, the architectural designs showcase distinctive features that encourage communal interaction. The central atrium acts as a gathering place, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. It serves as a stage for various activities, ranging from informal meetings to organized events, thereby functioning as the heart of the building. This thoughtful aspect of the design reflects an understanding of the modern need for flexible spaces that adapt to various uses over time.

The project also exhibits a keen understanding of scale and proportion, ensuring that each space feels appropriate for its intended use while contributing to the overall harmony of the design. From intimate nooks for quiet reflection to expansive areas designed for social gatherings, every element has been meticulously crafted to enhance user experience. The careful attention to detail is apparent in features such as custom furnishings that complement the architectural language and create cohesive environments that are both functional and visually appealing.

In summary, the project embodies a contemporary architectural ethos that values sustainability, community, and thoughtful design. Its careful material selection, innovative spatial organization, and attention to environmental contexts set it apart as a meaningful contribution to the architectural dialogue. The blend of function and artistry within this space invites users to engage with the environment, both physically and emotionally.

For those interested in further understanding the depth of this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas presented in this project will provide valuable insights into the intricate relationships that define this work. This project is a testament to the belief that architecture can influence not only the physical landscape but also the social fabric of a community. The thoughtful integration of design principles encourages an ongoing conversation about how spaces can foster connections while remaining mindful of their broader ecological impact.
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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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