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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Adaptive Communal Living

Authors:
Jiho Oh, Hyunwoo Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Adaptive Communal Living

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this adaptive living space fosters community connection while redefining modern residential design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainability and energy efficiency.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize structural integrity and spatial functionality.
04
Includes modular units that can be reconfigured to suit changing community needs.
05
Designed for seamless indoor-outdoor transitions, enhancing the connection to nature.
Alpha + Living is an architectural project that embodies a modern approach to communal and private living within limited spaces. This innovative design focuses on optimizing the use of residential areas through adaptable modular units, known as "alphas," that can serve various functions while being aesthetically cohesive with the environment. The project reflects a commitment to sustainability, combining practical living solutions with a philosophy of shared community engagement, allowing residents to experience a more communal lifestyle without compromising on their personal spaces.

At the heart of Alpha + Living is the concept of multifunctionality. The design encourages flexibility, accommodating different activities and interactions among residents. Each alpha unit is strategically planned to function independently or as part of a larger community network. This adaptability enhances the living experience by allowing residents to customize their spaces according to their individual needs, fostering a sense of ownership while promoting social connections. The thoughtful layout reflects an understanding of contemporary living patterns, where shared resources and communal spaces are critical in urban environments.

The architectural design prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. Each unit features distinct cutouts and openings that promote natural light and ventilation, creating a comfortable indoor environment while strengthening the relationship between the interior and the natural surroundings. The use of sustainable materials is central to the project, including wooden structures and steel roofing, which not only provide durability but also evoke a sense of warmth and connection to the natural landscape. Key features include stainless steel folding doors that allow for seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces, supporting the notion of living harmoniously with nature.

The layout of the project includes space for communal amenities such as a theater, café, library, sauna, and workspace, which serve to enrich the community experience. Each facility is designed to promote social interaction, encouraging engagement among residents. The modular nature of the design also means these spaces can be adjusted or repurposed as community needs evolve over time, ensuring that the project remains relevant and functional.

The distinctive architectural choices, such as the wooden exterior panels and the inclusion of rooftop photovoltaic panels, highlight the project’s focus on sustainability. Photovoltaic panels are incorporated not only for energy efficiency but also as part of a broader initiative to promote off-grid living. This integration aims to encourage residents to adopt more sustainable lifestyle practices while minimizing their ecological footprint.

Alpha + Living stands out through its innovative approach to tiny home living, showcasing how well-designed spaces can foster community connections while respecting individual privacy. The project demonstrates that efficient use of residential space can go hand in hand with environmental responsibility and social interaction.

For those interested in exploring the finer details of Alpha + Living, there is much to delve into regarding its architectural plans, sections, and design elements. Engaging with these aspects can provide a deeper understanding of how the project successfully merges functionality, sustainability, and communal living. The architectural ideas presented in this project serve as an insightful reference for contemporary housing solutions and urban design.
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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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