Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Frame a Multifunctional Community Space

Author:
Alessia Aliaga Saenz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Frame a Multifunctional Community Space

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design offers a harmonious blend of sustainability and versatility, serving as a vital community hub for social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while maintaining visual interest.
04
Engages the community during the design phase to tailor the space to local needs.
05
Integrates a living facade to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
This architectural design project represents a thoughtful integration of contemporary aesthetics with functional adaptability. Situated in a vibrant urban context, the design seeks to serve not only as a physical structure but also as a catalyst for social interaction and community engagement. The primary function of the project is to provide a multifunctional space that accommodates both individual and communal activities, enhancing the quality of life for its users.

At first glance, the project exhibits a harmonious blend of modern design principles and contextual sensitivity. The exterior façade is characterized by a balanced composition of materials that reflect the surrounding environment while also introducing innovative architectural elements. The use of natural materials such as locally sourced timber and sustainably produced concrete establishes a connection to the landscape, promoting ecological awareness. These materials are not only aesthetically pleasing but also provide resilience against the elements, ensuring durability over time.

The overall form of the building exhibits an intriguing interplay of volumes and voids, creating a dynamic silhouette that shifts depending on the viewer's perspective. Large, strategically placed windows invite natural light deep into the interior, fostering a connection with the outside world. This thoughtfully orchestrated incorporation of light serves to enhance the overall atmosphere, supporting both productivity and well-being within the space. The integration of green roofs and living walls further underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability, contributing to urban biodiversity while simultaneously improving air quality.

Exploring the interior layout reveals a keen understanding of how space can influence social interactions. Open-plan areas facilitate collaboration and communication, while designated quiet zones offer retreat spaces for individual reflection. The careful arrangement of different functional areas encourages fluid movement throughout the building, allowing users to transition seamlessly from communal gatherings to more intimate settings. This flexibility in design speaks to the evolving nature of how spaces are utilized in modern life, accommodating a variety of activities from informal meetups to structured events.

One of the unique design approaches employed in this project is the incorporation of community input during the design process. Engaging with local residents and stakeholders has allowed the architects to tailor the space to the specific needs and desires of its users. This participatory design approach not only fosters a sense of ownership among community members but also reinforces the building's role as a vital hub within the neighborhood.

The architectural details reveal a sophisticated understanding of craftsmanship. The careful selection of textures and finishes contributes to a rich sensory experience, inviting users to engage with the space on multiple levels. From the tactile sensation of the wooden surfaces to the smooth, cool feel of stone elements, each detail has been considered to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the project.

Moreover, the project's unique ability to adapt to changing circumstances further highlights its innovative potential. Designed with future transformations in mind, various aspects of the building can be reconfigured to accommodate new functions as community needs evolve. This forward-thinking approach ensures that the architecture remains relevant and useful for years to come.

In conclusion, this architectural project stands as a significant contribution to its urban context, blending aesthetic sensitivity with practical function. It invites exploration and encourages interaction, ultimately enriching the community it serves. For those interested in understanding the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs in greater depth, a closer look at this project presentation is highly recommended. This deep dive will provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas that anchor its design philosophy, further illuminating its role within contemporary architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy