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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape Sustainable Community Spaces

Author:
Kobe Carlos Clouthier
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape Sustainable Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels create a striking harmony with the environment in a thoughtfully designed community space that fosters interaction and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while minimizing carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Sustainable landscape elements establish a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor areas.
05
The design integrates community gathering spaces that encourage social interaction and engagement.
The architectural project in focus presents a contemporary response to its environment, showcasing a harmonious integration of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Situated in a well-defined geographical context, this design reflects an understanding of local cultural narratives while emphasizing its role within the community. The project serves multiple functions, aimed at not just housing its occupants but also fostering social interaction and promoting environmental consciousness.

Central to the project's identity is its architectural layout, which has been meticulously planned to facilitate a seamless flow between spaces. The circulation paths are intuitive, allowing users to navigate effortlessly through various areas. Essential zones are integrated thoughtfully, ensuring that spaces intended for gathering, work, and relaxation are both accessible and inviting. This layout is further enhanced by the strategic placement of windows and doors, which maximize natural light and ventilation while framing views of the surrounding landscape.

The use of materials in this architectural design underscores its commitment to sustainability and aesthetic coherence. High-strength reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone of the project, providing stability and durability. In contrast, sustainable timber is employed for cladding and interior finishes, imparting warmth and a tactile quality that contrasts with the more rigid concrete elements. The inclusion of low-emissivity glass not only promotes energy efficiency through passive solar gains but also connects the indoor environment to the outside world, encouraging occupants to engage with nature. Weathering steel accents add a modern industrial touch, reflecting the site’s character while showcasing longevity through its evolving surface.

Unique design approaches employed in this project include biophilic design principles, which prioritize a connection to nature. This is achieved through features such as green roofs, which enhance biodiversity and aid in stormwater management, as well as outdoor spaces that encourage interaction with natural elements. The project strategically integrates landscape architecture to create serene gardens and functional outdoor areas, promoting mental well-being and active lifestyles within the community.

Another distinctive aspect of the project is its responsiveness to climatic conditions. The architectural design incorporates shading devices and thermal mass strategies to regulate indoor temperatures, minimizing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems. This ensures comfort for users year-round while reducing the building's overall environmental footprint.

The interplay of different architectural elements and materials culminates in a design that is not only visually appealing but also functionally robust. Each component is carefully considered, contributing to the overall narrative of sustainability and community engagement. The architectural choices reflect a deep respect for the environment and the people who inhabit these spaces.

As you explore the architectural presentation of this project, consider reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal the complexities and intentionality behind each decision made. Each facet of the project contributes to a comprehensive understanding of its design ideas and the architectural philosophies that have shaped its realization. This in-depth exploration showcases how thoughtful architecture can positively influence both its immediate and broader context.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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