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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Transforming Urban Multi-Function Spaces

Author:
Dalia F M Al Madhoun
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Transforming Urban Multi-Function Spaces

Project in-detail

With a facade of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass that invites natural light, the design creates a vibrant community hub that seamlessly blends flexible spaces for retail and social interaction in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building integrates a green roof designed to manage rainwater and promote biodiversity.
02
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for enhanced durability and a unique aesthetic appeal.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for structural efficiency and sustainability benefits.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and creates dynamic interior spaces.
05
Outdoor balconies are incorporated to encourage interaction and engagement with the urban environment.
The architectural project under consideration represents a thoughtful integration of contemporary design principles with functional requirements. Located in an urban environment characterized by high-density development, this design seeks to create a harmonious balance between aesthetics and practicality, reflecting both the cultural context and the aspirations of its community.

At its core, the project serves as a multi-functional space, accommodating diverse activities including retail, community gatherings, and workspace. The architectural layout emphasizes fluidity and accessibility, allowing for smooth transitions between different areas. This deliberate approach facilitates interaction among users, fostering a sense of community and encouraging social engagement.

The facade of the building is particularly noteworthy, featuring a blend of natural materials and modern finishes. The extensive use of glass throughout the facade not only illuminates the interior spaces but also ties the structure to its surroundings, creating a sense of openness. The transparency of glass serves to invite daylight into the interior, enhancing the user experience. Complementing the glass elements are natural stone accents, which add warmth and textural contrast, grounding the design in its local context.

Unique design approaches have been employed in the project’s overall form, which juxtaposes geometric simplicity with organic contours. This combination allows the structure to emerge organically from its site, minimizing disruption to the existing landscape while maximizing views and natural light. The roofline features a series of undulating planes, which echo the contours of the surrounding topography and symbolize the project’s connection to nature. This element not only contributes to its visual appeal but also plays a practical role in managing rainwater, directing it away from the building and promoting sustainability.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the design, with numerous strategically placed outdoor spaces that enhance the user experience. Balconies and terraces extend from the structure, providing residents and visitors alike with areas to relax and enjoy the environment. Landscaping elements have been integrated into these spaces, utilizing native plants that require minimal irrigation. This thoughtful selection of flora not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the project but also reinforces sustainability goals.

The interior design continues the theme of openness and community. Expansive common areas are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for both large gatherings and intimate meetings. The use of durable yet aesthetically pleasing materials in these spaces ensures that the project meets the demands of daily use while maintaining a high standard of design quality. Finishes such as polished concrete floors and textile wall panels contribute to an overall sense of warmth and welcome, encouraging users to engage with the space.

Additionally, innovative construction methods have been employed to minimize the project’s environmental impact. The integration of energy-efficient systems, such as solar panels and green roofs, underscores a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that the building not only serves its immediate function but also contributes positively to the broader ecological landscape.

In exploring this architectural project further, one can appreciate the subtleties within its design elements. Delving into the architectural plans, sections, and details may reveal how the flow of the building is meticulously choreographed to enhance user experience. Architectural designs should always reflect the context and functionality, and this project exemplifies how careful attention to design decisions can yield a cohesive outcome.

For those interested in understanding the nuances of this architectural endeavor, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design elements will provide deeper insights into the thinking that informs the project. The careful interplay between materiality, structure, and community utility makes this project a noteworthy example of modern architecture, deserving of exploration and discussion.
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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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