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Charred Wooden Shingles and Denim Insulation in a Multifunctional Urban Habitat

Author:
Juan carlos Prazmowski
Charred Wooden Shingles and Denim Insulation in a Multifunctional Urban Habitat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and recycled denim insulation, the architectural design creates a sustainable urban habitat that fosters community interaction while addressing the need for affordable housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a rainwater treatment system for efficient water management.
02
Shared urban gardens promote sustainable living and community engagement.
03
Recycled denim insulation is utilized for enhanced thermal performance.
04
The structure employs modular units for adaptable living configurations.
05
Charred wood exterior treatment provides durability and pest resistance.
The Top Top House project is an architectural initiative located in Los Angeles, California, aimed at addressing affordable housing challenges while fostering community engagement. The design integrates residential, work, and communal spaces, focusing on a sustainable approach that utilizes previously underused urban areas. It represents a structured response to rising living costs, particularly for artists, by creating multifunctional living environments.

The project incorporates modular design principles, allowing for flexibility in spatial organization. Much of the layout centers around significant communal areas that facilitate interaction and a sense of community among residents. The arrangement of living units is carefully planned, ensuring optimized space usage while promoting inclusivity.

Innovative Materiality and Sustainable Features

The Top Top House is distinguished by its commitment to sustainability through the use of locally sourced and recycled materials. Key materials utilized in this project include recycled rubber shingles for roofing and wooden batons for structural support. Plywood sheathing reinforces walls, while cotton (denim) insulation provides thermal efficiency derived from recycled sources.

Additionally, the project effectively incorporates a range of ecological systems. These include rainwater harvesting, waste management solutions such as biodigesters, and an ecological toilet that minimizes water usage. This strategic integration of sustainable technologies satisfies both functional requirements and environmental considerations.

Community-Centric Architectural Solutions

A defining aspect of the Top Top House is its emphasis on communal living. The design encourages social interactions and supports shared activities through urban gardens and common spaces. This approach not only enhances the quality of life for residents but also promotes collaboration among individuals, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

The adaptable modular design allows for varied configurations tailored to the specific needs of residents, making it suitable for a diverse population. By employing horizontal and vertical wooden bracing as part of the structural systems, the architectural design ensures stability while maintaining aesthetic appeal.

For those interested in gaining deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design of Top Top House, it is recommended to explore the project presentation further. By reviewing these elements, readers can appreciate the architectural ideas that underpin this meaningful contribution to urban housing solutions.
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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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