Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Enamel Finishes in a Communal Housing Solution

Author:
Hui zhen Ng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Enamel Finishes in a Communal Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and integrated workspaces, the design fosters community engagement while providing efficient living solutions in an adaptable housing framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to quicker construction and structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and facilitates natural light entry.
04
Shared kitchen and social areas encourage community interaction among residents.
05
Modular unit configurations allow for future expansion and adaptability to needs.

The architectural design project presented is a forward-thinking response to the growing challenges of affordable housing. It focuses on communal living while reimagining traditional apartment configurations, particularly suitable for urban and suburban contexts. This project addresses the need for better living conditions by emphasizing community interaction within residential environments.

The design comprises compact individual units combined with shared amenities. Each unit features an efficient layout that typically includes essential living and sleeping spaces, while communal areas are integrated to foster social engagement. The project aims to enhance the quality of life through thoughtful spatial arrangements that promote collaboration among residents.

Design Integration and Community Focus

This project stands out by prioritizing communal living over isolated individual units. Unlike conventional residential designs that often segregate private spaces, this approach encourages shared facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and recreational areas. Such communal spaces are designed to facilitate social gatherings and create a sense of belonging among residents.

Notable features include centralized cooking and dining areas equipped with adaptable seating and cooking surfaces to promote interaction during meal preparation. Workspaces within the private units are configured to allow for flexibility in use, accommodating those who work from home. This integration supports varied lifestyles and fulfills diverse needs in a modern living environment.

Innovative Use of Space and Materials

The project employs an innovative layout that maximizes the functionality of compact spaces. The floor plans articulate a clear division between private and communal areas, ensuring that both aspects are accessible yet distinct. The utilization of modular design principles allows for scalability and adaptability in future developments.

Materials play a pivotal role in this design philosophy. Concrete offers durability and structural integrity, while extensive glazing creates openness and promotes natural light within residences. The inclusion of wood and enamel finishes adds warmth and user-friendly surfaces, contributing to both aesthetics and usability.

Residents are encouraged to engage with each other through the design's strategic placement of shared amenities, which serves to reinforce community ties. The overall arrangement provides opportunities for spontaneous interactions, challenging the notion that contemporary housing needs to prioritize privacy over community connection.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans and sections of this project, it is recommended to explore the detailed design elements presented. This will provide deeper insights into the architectural strategies employed and highlight the approach taken in addressing contemporary housing challenges.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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