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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Living Near Coogee Beach

Authors:
Yijun Yan, Ge Gao, Tingting Zheng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Living Near Coogee Beach

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the facility seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with its community-oriented design, promoting interaction among residents in a coastal setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes low carbon timber sourced from local suppliers to reduce environmental impact.
02
Features communal terraces designed for social interaction among residents.
03
Incorporates GGBS concrete to enhance sustainability in the building materials.
04
Includes large glass facades for maximizing natural light and views.
05
Integrates eco-friendly technologies like rainwater harvesting and solar panels.
The architectural design project, known as “The Interlocking,” is a community-focused facility located near Coogee Beach. This project is specifically designed to cater to the elderly population, emphasizing intergenerational interaction and social engagement. By integrating functional living spaces with community amenities, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents while fostering connections with younger generations.

The building comprises three levels, each carefully planned to promote accessibility and interaction. The ground floor features communal areas, including a central courtyard and multifunctional spaces for workshops and social activities. Upper floors accommodate residential units designed for small households, prioritizing comfort and adaptability to meet diverse needs. Architectural elements such as large glass facades maximize natural light, while outdoor terraces encourage outdoor activity.

Innovative Design Approaches

One distinguishing feature of “The Interlocking” is its emphasis on interlocking spaces. The design avoids traditional segregation of living and communal areas, creating a flow that allows residents to transition naturally between different sections of the facility. This approach is further enhanced by the spatial arrangement that encourages movement and interaction among users of diverse age groups.

The project also integrates sustainable building practices. Materials such as low carbon timber and GGBS concrete have been selected for their environmental benefits, supported by energy-efficient systems. Solar panels, rainwater harvesting, and wind turbines are incorporated to promote sustainability throughout the facility, reducing its overall carbon footprint and enhancing energy efficiency.

Community Integration

“The Interlocking” serves not only as a residence but also as a community hub. The design facilitates programming that invites entire neighborhoods to engage with the facility, further breaking down conventional barriers between generations. The architecture incorporates features such as accessible outdoor spaces where community events can be held, thus reinforcing the building's role as a locus of interaction.

Overall, “The Interlocking” represents a thoughtful response to contemporary elder care challenges through its architectural design and community-oriented approach.

For a more in-depth understanding of this innovative project, we encourage you to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that provide further insight into the unique ideas and methodologies embodied within this facility.
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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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