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Charred Wooden Shingles and Fiber-Reinforced Elements Define Sustainable Urban Community Hub

Authors:
Shuto Kaeda, Niwa Yusuke, Nakayasu Genya, Mamoru Ono
Charred Wooden Shingles and Fiber-Reinforced Elements Define Sustainable Urban Community Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and fiber-reinforced structures, the design serves as a vibrant community hub that encourages social interaction and urban engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are employed not only for aesthetics but also for enhanced fire resistance.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels contributes to the building's rapid construction timeline and reduced carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimized natural light penetration and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
04
Integrated green roofs support biodiversity while providing insulation and reducing stormwater runoff.
05
Flexible communal spaces are designed to accommodate a variety of activities, fostering community engagement and interaction.
The architectural design project showcases a seamless integration between functional utility and aesthetic appeal, revealing a thoughtful consideration of its context and purpose. Situated in an urban environment characterized by a blend of historical and modern elements, this project represents an innovative approach to urban architecture, emphasizing sustainability, community engagement, and the enhancement of public spaces.

At its core, the project is designed to serve as a multifunctional hub, catering to a variety of activities that foster social interaction and community engagement. The design articulates its function through a combination of open spaces, flexible layouts, and an emphasis on accessibility. By incorporating communal areas, such as gathering spots and recreational facilities, the project not only addresses individual needs but also encourages collective engagement, promoting a sense of belonging among users.

One of the most important elements of this architectural design is its materiality. The project utilizes a diverse palette of materials that complements its urban context while emphasizing sustainability. The primary materials include fiber-reinforced concrete, which offers durability and a modern aesthetic; reclaimed wood, which introduces warmth and a connection to nature; and large glass facades that maximize natural light and provide visual connectivity between the interior and surrounding environment. These materials have been selected not just for their functional attributes but also for their visual qualities, creating a harmonious balance between solid and transparent surfaces that invite both light and interaction.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout various aspects of the project. For instance, the layout is strategically oriented to harness passive solar energy, optimizing energy efficiency while enhancing user comfort. Landscape elements are also integrated into the overall design, with green roofs and vertical gardens incorporated to promote biodiversity and improve air quality. These aspects reflect a modern understanding of architecture that prioritizes environmental impact and user experience.

The architectural plans encapsulate a coherent vision, detailing the spatial relationships and flow between different functional areas. Each section of the building is devised to be flexible, allowing for future modifications in response to the evolving needs of the community. The architectural sections further illustrate how the design interacts with both the landscape and the built environment, revealing a layered composition that encourages exploration and discovery.

This project embodies a thoughtful approach to urban architecture, where the synthesis of function, materiality, and community engagement creates an inviting atmosphere. Its unique design not only aims to fulfill the immediate needs of its users but also aspires to foster a deeper connection with the surroundings, merging the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces and enhancing the overall urban fabric.

As you explore the project presentation, take a closer look at the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that underpin this engaging architectural effort. Each detail contributes to a holistic understanding of how contemporary architecture can respond to both environmental and social dimensions effectively, inviting further discussion among those interested in the evolving landscape of urban design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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