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Charred Wooden Shingles and Exposed Concrete Create an Engaging Community Hub

Author:
Jordan Parker Williams
Charred Wooden Shingles and Exposed Concrete Create an Engaging Community Hub

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels defining its exterior, this community hub seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with flexible spaces that invite social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates a green roof that supports local biodiversity and improves energy efficiency.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used not only for aesthetics but also to promote carbon sequestration.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive texture while enhancing fire resistance.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while creating visual interest and structural stability.
05
Dedicated flexible areas can easily adapt to various community activities and needs, promoting versatility.
The architectural project at hand exemplifies a thoughtful and cohesive approach to contemporary design, merging functionality with an aesthetic that resonates with its environmental context and intended usage. This project represents an inquiry into how architecture can respond to its locality, exploring themes of sustainability, community interaction, and innovative space utilization.

At its core, this project serves a multifunctional purpose. Designed as a community hub, it integrates various programs that encourage social interaction and foster a sense of belonging among users, thereby enhancing communal ties. The design places an emphasis on creating spaces that facilitate engagement – from open gathering areas to dedicated rooms for workshops and community meetings. The architects have considered how flow and accessibility can transform typical encounters into meaningful interactions, ensuring that the building is a welcoming space for diverse groups.

The architectural design employs a thoughtful selection of materials, each chosen for their aesthetic and functional properties. Common elements include exposed concrete which provides structural integrity while also evoking a sense of raw honesty in the architectural expression. The use of sustainably sourced timber introduces warmth and texture, creating a tactile experience that contrasts with the more austere concrete surfaces. Various glazing options are incorporated, allowing natural light to penetrate the interior, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing the experience of the space. Through the integration of these materials, the building reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency, aligning with modern architectural ideals.

In terms of unique design approaches, the project stands out with its incorporation of biophilic design principles. By integrating natural elements into the overall layout, such as living walls and green roofs, the architects have blurring the boundaries between the indoor environment and outdoor surroundings. This not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also promotes psychological well-being among users, as studies have shown that proximity to nature positively affects mental health. Careful attention to landscape design complements the architecture, encouraging users to engage with their surroundings and fostering a deeper connection to nature.

Additionally, the project showcases innovative design layouts that prioritize flexibility and adaptability. Spaces are designed to be reconfigurable to accommodate varying community needs, reflecting an understanding that the demands of occupants can shift over time. This foresight ensures that the structure can evolve while maintaining its relevance to the community it serves.

The architectural outcomes manifest in an engaging and interactive space that is well-considered and reflective of user needs. Each detail, from the choice of materials to the layout of communal areas, has been meticulously crafted to enhance the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the project while promoting a sustainable approach to urban living.

For readers who wish to delve deeper into the nuances of this architectural endeavor, a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas is recommended. These documents reveal the thought processes and design strategies employed to create a building that not only stands out in its context but also serves its community in meaningful ways. Exploring the intricacies located within these materials will provide further insight into the design's rationale and its aspirations for community enrichment.
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MICROHOME
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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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