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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Adaptive Community Spaces

Author:
Martina Cutajar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Adaptive Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels create a visually engaging facade that blends seamlessly with the local environment while serving as an adaptable co-working space designed for community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for sustainable weather resistance and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency while enhancing the project’s environmental performance.
03
The design incorporates flexible spaces that adapt to varying community needs and activities.
04
A bent A-frame structure allows for optimal natural light penetration while maintaining privacy.
05
Local vegetation is integrated into the design to foster a strong connection with the surrounding ecosystem.

## Project Overview

"Chance and Order in Architectural Production" is a speculative exploration situated in the unique context of Gozo, part of the Maltese Archipelago. The initiative examines the balance between chance and order in architectural methodologies, driven by a philosophical inquiry into the role of architectural agency. By observing the existing built environment, the project aims to reconsider design elements that may evolve organically, influenced by external factors beyond the architect's direct control.

## Design Methodology and Spatial Strategy

The design methodology is informed by the use of existing elements from Gozo, repurposed as raw materials for new configurations. This incremental approach emphasizes growing assemblages and adaptability, rather than fixed, final products. Key components of the spatial strategy include the careful selection of vegetation for visibility and structural support, a flexible layout designed for a co-working complex, and an exploration of emergent properties within the architectural design. These strategies allow for varying uses and foster a responsive environment aligned with changing societal and ecological conditions.

## Materiality and User Interaction

The project prioritizes material selection and structural characteristics that reflect its philosophical ethos. Louvers are designed to provide shade while preserving views, integrating both functional and aesthetic dimensions. Open-plan layouts promote adaptability, facilitating a diverse range of activities through the dynamic interplay of form and function. Additionally, the integration of nature through selected vegetation enhances the sensory experience within the space, while shading devices regulate light and visibility, contributing to occupant comfort. The design encourages community engagement and interaction, creating collective spaces that embody a more democratic approach to architectural practice.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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