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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Maria Bindiu, Colton Chehowy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Characterized by its charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this sustainable urban residence redefines communal living through its innovative design and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction time and improve thermal performance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates natural light and promotes airflow.
04
Integrates green roofs to support local biodiversity and manage stormwater.
05
Designed with flexible communal spaces that encourage social interaction among residents.
The architectural project at hand is a meticulously designed urban residence that embodies a contemporary vision for modern living in an increasingly dense city environment. This project represents a thoughtful approach to urban architecture, where the combination of sustainable practices and aesthetic considerations results in a functional and attractive living space. The primary function of this structure is to serve as a multifamily dwelling, accommodating a diverse range of residents while promoting a sense of community and connection to the environment.

The overall design is characterized by a series of interconnecting volumes that create a harmonious relationship between the building and the surrounding urban context. Each section of the building is purposefully arranged to maximize natural light and ventilation, ensuring that each unit benefits from an abundance of sunlight throughout the day. The architectural layout incorporates a blend of private and communal spaces, encouraging interaction among residents while maintaining individual privacy. Balconies and terraces are integrated at various levels, connecting the residents to the outdoors and enhancing the livability of the environment.

One of the standout elements of this project is its facade treatment, which employs a thoughtful combination of materials. The use of expansive double-glazed glass panels allows for transparency, blending indoor and outdoor spaces while offering panoramic views of the cityscape. This choice reflects a modern approach to urban living, where residents can feel connected to their surroundings. In contrast, the use of reclaimed timber cladding introduces warmth to the exterior, creating a tactile quality that invites engagement and emphasizes sustainability. The choice of materials not only respects environmental considerations but also contributes to the aesthetic integrity of the design, reflecting the character of the locality.

Landscaping plays a crucial role in the overall experience of the residents and the street level. A carefully curated planting scheme enhances the building’s connection to nature, offering green spaces that promote biodiversity and support ecological sustainability. The incorporation of native plant species reduces maintenance needs and provides habitats for local wildlife, creating an environment that fosters a sense of place and belonging.

Internally, the design prioritizes spaciousness and adaptability. Open-plan living areas are flexible, allowing residents to customize spaces according to their lifestyle needs. Large windows and high ceilings amplify the sense of space, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages a relaxed way of living. The interior color palette comprises neutral tones with carefully selected accents that reflect the vibrancy of urban life, ensuring that the energy of the exterior carries through to the internal spaces.

Unique design approaches within this project include its commitment to sustainability and community-oriented design. The integration of green roofs not only enhances the thermal performance of the building but also contributes to urban cooling and stormwater management. These features illustrate a proactive response to the challenges of increasing urbanization and climate change, showcasing the architect's dedication to responsible design. Furthermore, the architectural strategy to create interconnected spaces enhances social interactions while fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

In this way, the project not only fulfills the basic function of providing housing but also contributes positively to the urban fabric, encouraging residents to embrace a lifestyle that values sustainability and community. The architectural ideas presented in this project provide a vision for future developments, emphasizing the potential for urban spaces to evolve into living ecosystems that support human activity and nature alike.

For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of this architectural project, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs will offer further insights into its innovative concepts. Exploring these elements will enhance your understanding of how the careful interplay of design choices results in a cohesive and functional urban habitat.
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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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