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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Community Hub in Urban Landscape

Author:
Faizan Shaikh
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Community Hub in Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Comprising charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design integrates sustainable materials to create a multifunctional community hub that enhances urban interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Composed of sustainably sourced charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and insulation.
03
Incorporates green roofs to support local biodiversity and energy efficiency.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize natural light and interior space utilization.
05
Engages the community through adaptable spaces that promote interaction and collaboration.

The project presents a contemporary architectural design that emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic coherence. The structure integrates seamlessly with its surrounding environment, demonstrating a commitment to enhancing the urban landscape while adhering to the functional requirements of its intended use. The project's layout showcases an innovative approach that prioritizes both the user experience and ecological considerations.

The building serves a multifaceted purpose, catering to a variety of activities that promote community engagement. Its design includes open and adaptable spaces, allowing for flexible use that can accommodate different events and functions. Natural light floods through strategically placed windows, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the overall ambiance within the interior spaces.

Distinctive Features and Design Approaches

A key distinguishing feature of this project is its material palette, which consists of sustainably sourced materials such as reclaimed wood, energy-efficient glass, and a combination of concrete and metal for structural integrity. This choice reflects a dedication to sustainability while providing a modern aesthetic. Each material has been selected not only for its functional properties but also for its role in contributing to the building’s overall sustainability objectives.

Furthermore, the structure incorporates green roofs and wall systems that support biodiversity and improve the building's energy performance. These elements not only contribute to the thermal efficiency of the project but also create habitats for urban wildlife, enhancing local ecosystems within the metropolitan context. The integration of these features signifies a progressive attitude towards sustainable architecture, addressing the challenges of urban living.

Innovative Spatial Design

The spatial organization of the project is notable for its emphasis on connectivity and interaction. Open-plan areas facilitate collaboration, while strategically placed semi-private spaces allow for individual activities without isolating users. The layout encourages movement throughout the building, linking different zones such as public areas, meeting rooms, and recreational spaces.

In addition to encouraging user interaction, the design considers the flow of people, with wide corridors and accessible pathways that cater to all demographics. This intentional circulation pattern emphasizes inclusivity, ensuring the building is welcoming to everyone, regardless of their physical capabilities.

The project reflects a contemporary architectural ethos that prioritizes both utility and aesthetic value. Through thoughtful material choices, innovative design approaches, and a focus on sustainable practices, it stands out as a relevant work in today’s architectural landscape.

For those interested in exploring the detailed aspects of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas, a comprehensive presentation is available that offers deeper insights into the design and its functional outcomes.

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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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