Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Daylighting in a Multi-Use Community Hub

Authors:
Andree Brunet, Anne-laurence Bellefeuille, Luc-olivier Daigle, David Blanc
Charred Wooden Shingles and Daylighting in a Multi-Use Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a harmonious blend of natural light and sustainable materials, resulting in a versatile community hub that fosters social connection and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and environmental performance.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and create inviting interior spaces.
04
Includes a green roof to promote biodiversity and improve insulation.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that can adapt for various community functions and events.
The architectural project presents a thoughtful exploration of space and community integration, situated in a dynamic urban environment. Designed to foster interaction and engagement, this building serves a multifaceted purpose, accommodating both individual functions and collective activities. The primary intent behind the design is to create a harmonious blend of aesthetics and utility, ensuring that the structure not only meets the needs of its users but also contributes positively to the surrounding context.

At its core, this project represents a contemporary approach to architecture, prioritizing sustainability and user experience. It harmonizes form and function by employing a balanced design strategy that reflects the surrounding environment while pushing the boundaries of standard architectural practices. The building's functionality is evident in its well-organized spaces that facilitate various activities, from community gatherings to private meetings, enriching the everyday experiences of its users. This endeavor envisions a space where architecture does more than just exist; it lives, interacts, and evolves with its occupants.

The design features an open floor plan that encourages natural light to permeate throughout the interior, conceivably contributing to the mental well-being of the inhabitants. Large windows and strategically placed skylights offer views of the outside while blurring the line between indoor and outdoor spaces. This seamless integration emphasizes a connection to nature, making the environment more inviting and less constricting. The thoughtful arrangement of public and private areas further strengthens this connection, promoting both collaboration and solitude as needed.

Materiality plays a pivotal role in this architectural design. A careful selection of materials enhances the visual narrative of the project while ensuring durability and sustainability. The blending of concrete, glass, and sustainably sourced timber not only works to create a unique visual identity but also underscores a commitment to environmental responsibility. Concrete provides robustness and longevity, while the reflective quality of glass allows for dynamic interactions with the changing light throughout the day. The warmth of timber adds an organic touch, softening the overall aesthetic and creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The architectural design is distinguished by its innovative structural techniques, which provide aesthetic and functional advantages. For instance, cantilevered elements are implemented to extend usable space into the outdoor environment, fostering a greater connection to the landscape. These design choices reflect a forward-thinking approach that values functionality while challenging conventional spatial configurations.

In addition to its architectural merits, the project actively engages with its community. Its placement within the urban fabric encourages foot traffic and social interaction, drawing individuals into a space meant to foster connections. This public-oriented strategy is thoughtfully developed through accessible entrances and inclusive layouts, ensuring that the building serves all segments of the community. The thoughtful landscaping complements the architecture, creating inviting outdoor areas that encourage relaxation and sociability amidst the bustling city backdrop.

As a reflection of contemporary architectural trends, this project embraces sustainable practices through its design and operational strategies. Renewable energy sources, efficient water management systems, and attention to material life cycles highlight a commitment to reducing the building's ecological footprint. This focus on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also enhances the building's long-term viability and relevance in an evolving urban landscape.

The architectural project stands out not just as a physical entity, but as a vibrant hub for community engagement and architectural exploration. It embodies pragmatic solutions matched with aesthetic sensibilities, resulting in a comprehensive design that resonates with users and visitors alike. Readers interested in exploring the intricate details of this architectural endeavor should delve into the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements in the project presentation to gain a richer understanding of how these components coalesce to create a unique architectural statement. The continuous interplay of design ideas and community impact offers a compelling narrative worth investigating further.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy