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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Facades in a Multifunctional Urban Agriculture Hub

Authors:
Yanyan Zhang, Xueer Ma
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass Facades in a Multifunctional Urban Agriculture Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design integrates organic materials to create a multifunctional hub for urban agriculture and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and improve insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows optimal natural light penetration.
04
Includes dedicated spaces for culinary education linked to urban agriculture.
05
Facilitates community interaction through multifunctional areas designed for engagement.
The Green-House project is an architectural design positioned in San Francisco, California, reflecting a blend of agricultural heritage and contemporary urban needs. The design combines residential and agricultural functionalities within a single structure while emphasizing sustainability and community interaction. The project is structured around two main elements: wooden boxes and glass boxes, which serve distinct yet complementary purposes.

The wooden boxes provide flexible living and workspaces, while the glass boxes are dedicated to agricultural uses, maximizing daylight and creating conducive environments for plant growth. This duality allows the structure to operate as both a residential area and a community agricultural space, showcasing a progressive approach to urban architecture.

Innovative Design Approaches and Materiality

One of the standout features of this project is its use of materials that promote sustainability and environmental integration. The predominant use of glass in the design enhances natural light access and contributes to the building's overall energy efficiency. The transparency of the glass boxes strengthens the relationship between occupants and the surrounding environment, making nature an integral part of the living experience.

Wood is employed extensively in the construction of the wooden boxes. This material choice reflects a commitment to renewable resources, adding warmth and character to the interior spaces. The structural integrity of the design is supported by metal frames, essential for maintaining the stability of the expansive glass facades. Insulation materials are strategically applied to ensure optimal thermal performance.

Community Engagement and Functionality

The Green-House project emphasizes community engagement through the inclusion of distinct functional areas. It features a marketing space designed for local produce, fostering an interactive environment for local vendors and residents. A youth center is also incorporated, providing educational opportunities focused on urban agriculture, bridging the gap between generations and enhancing community involvement.

Additionally, the culinary space adjacent to the greenhouse invites individuals to participate in cooking demonstrations, emphasizing the importance of healthy eating practices. This multifunctional approach encourages users to explore food production from cultivation to preparation, reinforcing the role of the building as a community hub.

For a deeper understanding of the Green-House project, including architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. This will provide valuable insights into the architectural intentions and functional outcomes that define this innovative design.
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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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