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Charred Wooden Shingles and Earthwork Design in a Communal Living Space

Authors:
Henk Lourens, Jean-david De Villiers, Jaco Van Der Watt
Charred Wooden Shingles and Earthwork Design in a Communal Living Space
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and innovative earthwork design, the development offers a communal living environment that prioritizes accessibility and social engagement for its elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while integrating aesthetics with fire-resistant properties.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Innovative earthwork techniques create accessible communal gathering spaces throughout the site.
04
The bent A-frame design fosters natural light penetration and efficient internal circulation.
05
Strategic landscaping blends the built environment with surrounding natural elements.

# Analytical Report: "Village on the Hill"

## Overview
Located within a natural landscape, "Village on the Hill" is a residential development designed primarily for the elderly population, emphasizing community engagement and integration with its surroundings. The layout promotes a balance between public and private living spaces, facilitating both individual comforts and social interactions. The project employs a nuanced approach to architectural massing and material choice, responding effectively to the site's topography and local context.

## Accessibility and Spatial Strategy
Central to the design is a comprehensive accessibility strategy, reflected in the strategic placement of entrances and circulation pathways that accommodate various mobility needs. Ramps and clearly defined routes ensure ease of movement for all residents and visitors. The spatial organization features staggered levels that accommodate diverse functions, including living units, communal areas, and administrative offices, promoting a social environment through shared spaces like lounges and dining areas. Transition spaces such as terraces and patios blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor areas, fostering connections among residents.

## Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection plays a critical role in both aesthetic appeal and functionality. The use of concrete ensures durability, while wood and stone elements provide warmth and establish a connection to the local environment. Expansive glass openings enhance transparency and natural light within living units. Sustainability is evident in the integration of local materials, minimizing transportation impacts, and employing passive design strategies that optimize natural ventilation and sunlight access, reflecting a commitment to ecological responsibility.

Overall, "Village on the Hill" embodies a thoughtful design approach that prioritizes community living, accessibility, and environmental awareness, resulting in a cohesive and supportive residential environment for its elderly residents.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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