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Charred Wooden Shingles and Eco-Friendly Paint Create Vibrant Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Katie Donahue, Katharina Hoerath, Shima Miabadi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Eco-Friendly Paint Create Vibrant Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and large glass panels blend seamlessly to create a vibrant living environment in Toronto, offering residents not just shelter but a sense of community and connection through thoughtfully designed shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features large glass panels that foster natural light and connection with the outdoors.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize space and create unique interior layouts.
05
Emphasizes communal living through purpose-built shared spaces and gardens.
The Plex (+) Project emerges as a thoughtful architectural response to the pressing issue of affordable housing in urban settings, specifically within the vibrant fabric of Toronto. This initiative represents a commitment to not only provide housing but also to cultivate a sense of community among residents. At its core, the project focuses on modular design, which allows for flexibility and adaptability to address the diverse needs of families in a bustling metropolitan area.

The architecture of The Plex (+) reflects a modern sensibility grounded in functionality and social responsibility. The design features a combination of individual units alongside shared communal spaces, fostering interactions and connections among residents. This approach encourages a community atmosphere, emphasizing collaboration and shared experiences as fundamental components of a more sustainable urban lifestyle. The integration of various unit typologies, such as studios and multi-bedroom apartments, demonstrates an understanding of the demographic diversity that characterizes urban populations, accommodating different needs and lifestyles.

A key aspect of this project's design lies in its focus on community engagement through architecture. The thoughtfully allocated public amenities, including gardens, art spaces, and recreational areas, create opportunities for residents to gather, collaborate, and engage in social interactions. These spaces are crucial in countering the often isolating nature of modern urban life, reminding residents of the importance of community bonds. The combination of shared areas with private living spaces reflects a balanced approach, allowing for personal privacy while promoting community support and interaction.

The materiality of The Plex (+) plays a significant role in its architectural expression. The choice of reinforcement concrete as a foundational material provides structural integrity, while wood cladding offers warmth and a sense of homeliness. Expansive glass panels enhance connectivity with the outdoor environment, allowing natural light to permeate the units, thereby improving the overall living experience. The inclusion of eco-friendly paints in exterior murals highlights a commitment to sustainability, reinforcing the project's dedication to environmental stewardship alongside its architectural goals.

Unique design approaches featured in The Plex (+) focus heavily on modularity. The ability to expand and adapt the structure as community dynamics shift is not only practical but also innovative in addressing the ever-evolving needs of urban residents. This design flexibility ensures that the project remains relevant over time, accommodating changes in demographics and housing demands without compromising the integrity of the original design.

Furthermore, the architectural organization of The Plex (+) exemplifies efficient spatial planning, maximizing functionality while maintaining a cohesive visual narrative. The integration of sections that provide clear sightlines between indoor and outdoor spaces enhances the sense of openness, making the apartments feel larger and more welcoming. Accessibility is thoughtfully considered within the design, ensuring that all residents can benefit from the communal amenities and shared spaces, thus upholding the project's inclusive ethos.

In summary, The Plex (+) Project stands as a robust architectural endeavor addressing the complexities of urban living through thoughtful design and a commitment to community-centric ideals. Its modularity, material choices, and innovative use of space collectively emphasize the potential of architecture to improve living conditions and forge stronger community ties. To gain a deeper insight into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive presentation of this project. Engaging with the architectural ideas represented in The Plex (+) will undoubtedly reveal further dimensions and nuances of this significant urban initiative.
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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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