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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Versatile Community Space

Authors:
Zaira Bernal, Andrés Bustamante, Erick Martinez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in Versatile Community Space

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a structure built with cross-laminated timber panels, creating a versatile community space that emphasizes sustainability and adaptability in design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels allow for rapid construction and reduced carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural integrity and maximizes interior space.
04
Indoor and outdoor areas are seamlessly integrated through large sliding glass doors.
05
Sustainable landscaping features native plants to support local biodiversity.

The project is an innovative architectural design that integrates contemporary aesthetics with functional utility, responding to the site’s geographical context and user needs. It serves as a multi-purpose structure, designed to accommodate various activities, promoting community interaction while ensuring an efficient flow of circulation. The design focuses on creating an environment that fosters collaboration and innovation, all while reflecting the cultural identity of the surrounding area.

One of the standout features of this project is its commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates passive solar techniques, using natural light and ventilation to enhance energy efficiency. The inclusion of green roofs and rainwater harvesting systems emphasizes the project's sustainable approach, reducing environmental impact while promoting biodiversity.

The material selection is central to the philosophy of the design. Key materials include reinforced concrete, glass, and sustainably sourced timber. These materials not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the structure but also provide durability and longevity. The use of large glass panels maximizes natural light penetration, creating bright, inviting interiors.

Unique Design Approaches

What sets this architectural project apart is its innovative spatial organization. The layout is characterized by flexible spaces that can adapt to varying functions. The design anticipates future modifications and expansions, ensuring that the facility remains relevant over time. Open-plan areas encourage social interaction and multitasking, while strategically placed private spaces offer opportunities for individual activities or focused work.

Another distinctive element is the seamless integration of outdoor and indoor environments. Large sliding doors and strategically placed windows create visual connections to the exterior, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. This design choice not only enhances the user experience but also reinforces the building's relationship with its natural surroundings.

Architectural Features and Design Elements

The façade of the building embodies a modern interpretation of local architectural traditions, illustrating a dialogue between contemporary architecture and the historical context of the site. The interplay of textures—smooth glass juxtaposed with the roughness of timber—enhances visual interest and embodies a responsive design ethos.

Landscaping plays a crucial role in the overall design, with gardens and communal spaces designed to encourage outdoor activities and gatherings. The carefully curated plant selections are native to the region, supporting local ecosystems while providing a pleasing aesthetic.

In summary, this architectural project successfully balances functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. Its innovative design strategies and careful attention to materiality position it as a noteworthy addition to contemporary architecture.

For those interested in further exploring the intricacies of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, it is encouraged to delve deeper into the project's presentation for more comprehensive insights into its architectural execution and conceptual framework.

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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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