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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shaping Sustainable Refugee Housing in Urban Settings

Authors:
Christina Hristova, Macourley James, Dan Gibbons
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shaping Sustainable Refugee Housing in Urban Settings

Project in-detail

Characterized by its use of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design effectively addresses urban refugee housing needs while promoting community integration and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Characterized by a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and superior thermal insulation.
04
Includes communal areas designed specifically to foster cultural exchange among residents.
05
Integrates green roofs to support biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively.
The architectural design project "Refuge(e) Within Community" aims to address the evolving social dynamics of refugee housing in Berlin. The project emerges as a response to the significant increase in refugee populations since 2015, focusing on creating inclusive environments that promote integration and community interaction. Through thoughtful spatial organization and material selection, the design aspires to foster meaningful connections between asylum seekers and local residents, ultimately contributing to a cohesive urban fabric.

Design Intent and Functional Aspects

The primary function of this project is to provide sustainable housing that accommodates refugees while facilitating their integration within the community. The design emphasizes adaptable living spaces that address diverse needs, offering individual apartments alongside communal facilities. Key residential features include self-contained units enhanced by public and semi-public areas, such as communal courtyards, learning spaces, and balconies. This arrangement encourages social interaction and creates opportunities for cultural exchange, reflecting the project's commitment to inclusivity.

A unique aspect of the design is its focus on community-centric opportunities. The spaces are strategically designed to encourage interaction, with shared facilities serving as social hubs. This layout promotes coexistence among diverse groups, allowing for organic exchanges of knowledge and cultural experiences. The incorporation of green roofs and communal gardens further enhances the project's environmental sustainability, providing ecological benefits while offering residents access to nature.

Materiality and Construction Techniques

In this project, the choice of materials plays a critical role in achieving both functionality and sustainability. The primary materials utilized include Glued Laminated Timber (glulam), Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), and Civic Concrete. These materials contribute to the project's structural integrity, while also embodying a warm and inviting aesthetic. The use of locally sourced timber minimizes the environmental impact associated with transportation and supports local economies.

Large glass windows are another feature, allowing for substantial natural light and creating a transparent environment that connects indoor and outdoor spaces. The overall architectural design focuses on not only durability and efficiency but also creating a comfortable atmosphere for its residents.

Incorporating green roofs assists in managing stormwater effectively, enhances thermal performance, and promotes biodiversity. This design choice not only enriches the visual landscape but also contributes to the ecological health of the urban environment.

Explore further into this thoughtfully constructed project by reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. These elements provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas and design strategies employed throughout "Refuge(e) Within Community."
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MICROHOME
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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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