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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Define Eco-Friendly Urban Living

Authors:
Wang Chung Cheng, Ho Fai Wong
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Define Eco-Friendly Urban Living

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles harmoniously integrated with expansive glazing, the design creates a welcoming environment for community engagement within an urban residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates urban agriculture elements in exterior spaces to promote green living.
05
Employs large glass facades to create a seamless connection between interior and exterior environments.
The architectural project under review embodies a thoughtful integration of form and function, reflecting both contemporary design principles and a deep consideration of the surrounding context. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this project serves multiple purposes, catering to both individual users and the broader community. The architecture represents a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and practicality, showcasing how innovative design can enhance daily life while respecting its environment.

This structure boasts a unique design approach characterized by its fluid spatial organization. Upon entering the building, one is greeted by an open-concept layout that allows for a seamless flow between different functional spaces. This design choice is intentional, promoting interaction and connectivity among residents or visitors, reinforcing a sense of community. The areas within are thoughtfully delineated without harsh barriers, allowing natural light to permeate throughout the interior, creating an inviting atmosphere.

The façade of the building presents a thoughtful selection of materials that balance robustness with visual appeal. A strategic combination of concrete and large expanses of glass reflects a modern architecture style that embraces transparency and light. The glass not only offers visual connections to the outside environment but also enhances energy efficiency through passive solar gain, reducing the overall energy consumption of the building. Additionally, natural stone accents provide textured contrasts and help anchor the structure to its site, grounding it within its specific geographical and cultural context.

Another significant aspect of this project is its emphasis on sustainability. The design incorporates various eco-friendly features, such as green roofs and integrated rainwater harvesting systems. These elements not only contribute to the building’s ecological footprint but also create spaces for urban agriculture, promoting biodiversity within the urban landscape. The careful selection of materials continues through to the interior, where responsibly sourced wood has been utilized for flooring and details, further emphasizing the project’s commitment to sustainability without sacrificing warmth and character.

In terms of functionality, the design introduces flexible spaces that can adapt to different uses over time, catering to evolving needs. This foresight reflects a growing trend in architecture where adaptability becomes crucial in a rapidly changing world. The design includes multipurpose rooms that can be easily reconfigured, making it suitable for a range of activities from public gatherings to private events. These spaces encourage social interaction among users, reinforcing the project's community-oriented focus.

The architectural plans provide insight into the careful consideration of circulation patterns within the design. By minimizing the distance between key functional areas such as communal spaces, kitchens, and bathrooms, the project enhances usability and comfort for its occupants. The architectural sections reveal an intelligent distribution of volume, with high ceilings in communal areas promoting openness and airiness, while more intimate spaces maintain a cozier scale.

The project also features outdoor areas that extend the architecture beyond the building’s walls. Patios and gardens not only serve as recreational spaces but also foster a connection with nature, which is essential for well-being in urban environments. These outdoor elements encourage community engagement, as residents can gather and socialize, thus reinforcing the project's aim of creating a vibrant community life.

What sets this project apart is its commitment to integrating architectural aesthetics with functional needs while simultaneously addressing social and environmental factors. This balanced approach showcases a modern understanding of architecture as not merely a physical structure but a facilitator of lifestyle and community interaction. The design reflects thoughtful innovations that prioritize well-being, sustainability, and adaptability.

For those interested in further exploring the intricacies of this architectural project, the presentation materials offer detailed insights into its architectural plans, sections, and designs. Knowledgeable enthusiasts are encouraged to delve into the specific architectural ideas that shaped this innovative endeavor, providing a fuller understanding of its impact on both its immediate surroundings and the broader architectural landscape.
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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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