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 Engineered Timber Create Community Hub Committed to Sustainability

Authors:
Mina Eghbal, Hiyala Shafeeq
Charred Wooden Shingles and Engineered Timber Create Community Hub Committed to Sustainability

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and engineered timber, this community hub stands as a testament to sustainable design while fostering social interaction and connectivity among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles provides both a distinctive aesthetic and enhanced weather resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are integrated to improve sustainability while allowing for flexible spatial configurations.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes structural stability while creating visually engaging interior spaces.
04
Natural landscaping features promote biodiversity and contribute to effective stormwater management.
05
Innovative energy-conscious systems are implemented to minimize operational costs while maximizing occupant comfort.
The project under analysis represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architectural design, situated in a vibrant urban context. This architecture embodies a commitment to not only aesthetic appeal but also functionality, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding environment. The design serves multiple purposes, catering to the needs of its occupants while fostering community interaction.

Its overall architectural language reflects a balance between modernity and respect for the existing urban fabric. The project manifests itself as a space that encourages engagement and dialogue among its users. This is achieved through an arrangement of spaces that promotes collaboration and social interaction, making it an integral part of the community.

A notable aspect of the design is the circulation strategy, which emphasizes fluid connectivity between different areas. The layout encourages movement throughout the space, with carefully considered pathways that direct flow while also providing moments of pause. This thoughtful circulation not only enhances accessibility but also invites users to explore various aspects of the structure.

The architectural design employs a range of materials that contribute to its overall identity. The use of concrete establishes a solid foundation, symbolizing permanence and strength. Complementing this are expansive glass facades, which create transparency and invite natural light, fostering an open atmosphere that blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. The incorporation of engineered timber adds warmth and texture, enhancing the human scale of the project. Steel elements further demonstrate a commitment to durability and structural integrity, allowing for innovative form-making possibilities.

Unique approaches to sustainability are woven into the fabric of the design. The architects have integrated passive design strategies that optimize energy efficiency while maximizing comfort for occupants. Features such as sun shading devices and green roofs contribute to the building’s ecological footprint, minimizing runoff while promoting biodiversity. These elements reflect a contemporary architectural ethos that prioritizes environmental responsibility alongside aesthetic and functional objectives.

The project also embraces technology as a key component of its design strategy. Smart building systems are incorporated to monitor energy usage and enhance user experience. This forward-thinking aspect aligns with the growing trend of integrating technology into architecture, providing both operational efficiency and improved living conditions.

Community impact remains at the forefront of the design intentions. The project includes public spaces that serve as gathering points, encouraging social cohesion and interaction. Such design choices emphasize the architects' understanding of the project’s role within its socio-cultural context, creating a venue that invites both residents and visitors to engage with it on different levels.

In summary, this architectural project exemplifies a holistic design approach that marries functionality with aesthetic appeal. It embraces modern building practices while remaining firmly rooted in its community. The design decisions reflect a comprehensive understanding of not only what the building is meant to serve, but also how it interacts with its environment and inhabitants.

For a deeper understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design diagrams, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. This additional information will provide valuable insights into the innovative architectural ideas that underpin this compelling design.
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