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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Framework Create Dynamic Community Living Spaces

Authors:
Laetitia Bazerji, Glory Nasr
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Framework Create Dynamic Community Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a modular framework, this community-focused development fosters adaptable living environments that encourage social interaction in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Modular framework permits individual resident customization of living spaces.
03
Vertical gardens integrated into the design promote biodiversity and community engagement.
04
Suspension cables support elevated pathways, improving accessibility and connectivity.
05
Standardized components streamline construction and reduce material waste.

**Overview**

Located in a densely populated neighborhood on the outskirts of London, The Frame Collective offers a novel approach to community housing, aiming to enhance social connectivity and address urban living challenges. The design prioritizes modularity and adaptability, creating a framework that encourages community engagement and personal customization of living spaces. By intertwining public and private areas, the project fosters a sense of belonging while addressing the need for affordable housing.

**Modular Design and Spatial Flexibility**

The project employs a modular system that supports various unit configurations, promoting affordability and adaptability. Residents can choose from different dwelling types, such as studios and family units, allowing for arrangement according to both individual and community needs. This flexibility is further enhanced by the structural framework, which accommodates changes in resident circumstances over time.

Additionally, the integration of functional frames supports activities that enhance community interaction, including vertical gardens and open spaces for markets and social events. Pathways throughout the structure encourage fluid movement between private and communal areas, creating an environment that supports engagement while respecting individual privacy.

**Sustainability and Material Choices**

Material selection is crucial to the design’s functionality and sustainability. Standardized pipes provide structural integrity while facilitating flexible design layouts. Rotating connections allow for modular expansion, enabling the living spaces to adapt as community needs evolve. The use of suspension cables contributes to the lightweight appearance of elevated structures, while composite materials enhance durability and sustainability.

The integration of green elements, such as vertical gardens, reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility, fostering biodiversity within the urban setting. The overall design approach minimizes construction waste and aims for a reduced environmental impact throughout the project's lifespan.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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