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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Multi-Purpose Community Hub

Authors:
Blake Joseph Hageman, Andrew Fan Jiang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Multi-Purpose Community Hub

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels defining its striking facade, the building serves as a versatile community hub designed to foster connection and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to enhance structural integrity while providing a contemporary aesthetic.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and a distinctive visual appeal.
03
Features a flexible interior layout that can be easily adapted for various community activities.
04
Integrates natural ventilation systems to optimize air quality and reduce energy consumption.
05
Employs local materials to promote sustainability and foster a connection with the surrounding environment.
This architectural project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of design and functionality, showcasing a balanced approach to contemporary architecture while addressing the needs of its users. Nestled in its geographical context, the project represents a seamless blend of aesthetic appeal and practicality, resulting in a space that fosters community engagement while maintaining a distinct character.

The project is designed with a clear function in mind, serving as a multi-purpose facility intended to accommodate various activities that strengthen social connectivity. The thoughtful layout features both public and private areas, ensuring that different user groups can interact comfortably while having the option to retreat into more intimate spaces. This careful spatial organization not only enhances the user experience but also encourages a sense of belonging among its occupants.

At the heart of the design is a commitment to sustainability, with the architects employing environmentally friendly materials that have minimal impact on the surrounding environment. This materiality is not merely functional; it invokes a sense of place, referencing local traditions while showcasing modern building techniques. Elements such as timber cladding, natural stone finishes, and energy-efficient glass contribute to the overall aesthetic, giving the structure a warm and inviting presence that harmonizes with the local landscape.

A prominent feature of the project is its facade, which engages in a dialogue with both the natural environment and the urban fabric. The architects have skillfully manipulated light and shadow through the use of varied textures and materials, creating a dynamic interplay that changes throughout the day. The facade is not just a barrier; it serves as a canvas that reflects the surrounding landscape, inviting passersby to engage with the building while creating an appealing perspective for those inside.

Interior spaces are designed with the same level of consideration, focusing on user comfort and functionality. The strategic use of open floor plans encourages fluid movement between spaces, fostering interaction among users. Thoughtfully placed windows and skylights allow natural light to permeate interior spaces, enhancing the atmosphere while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This careful consideration of natural elements exemplifies the project's commitment to creating an inviting, well-lit environment.

Unique design approaches also emerge in the project's approach to community involvement. The architects have engaged with local stakeholders throughout the design process, ensuring that the building meets the needs and aspirations of its future users. This participatory approach not only enriches the design but also reinforces the project's role as a community-centric space, where architecture serves as a bridge between the built environment and the people it serves.

The structure itself is designed to be adaptable, allowing various functionalities to coalesce within its walls. This flexibility is essential for accommodating changing community needs over time. The architects envision future growth and innovation, fostering an environment where ideas can flourish in a supportive, well-designed setting. The result is a space that not only serves immediate needs but is also prepared to evolve with its community.

Through its innovative design, attention to materiality, and community-focused approach, this architectural project stands as a testament to contemporary practices that prioritize user experience and environmental sustainability. For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, it is encouraged to explore the presentation further, uncovering the nuanced architectural ideas that shape this remarkable endeavor. By engaging with the project’s presentation, readers can appreciate the multifaceted layers of thought that inform each aspect of this architectural 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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