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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Layouts Elevate Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
James Donaldson
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Layouts Elevate Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and a flexible layout, this compact dwelling integrates sustainable materials to create a harmonious urban living space that fosters 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 promote sustainability and efficient construction.
03
Features a flexible layout that easily adapts to various living needs and lifestyles.
04
Designed with large glass windows that maximize natural light and connection to the outdoors.
05
Includes communal spaces that encourage interaction and foster a sense of community among residents.
The Madu Microhome Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) project stands as a thoughtful and contemporary response to the pressing housing challenges faced in urban environments, particularly in Los Angeles, California. This architectural endeavor combines practicality with an understanding of community dynamics, creating a living space that encourages both individual autonomy and social interaction among residents.

At its core, the project represents a sustainable approach to housing, addressing not just the immediate need for affordable and diverse living arrangements but also fostering a sense of community. The architecture is designed to function as a flexible microhome, providing essential residential features while occupying a minimal footprint on the urban landscape. This unique duality enhances its role as both a holiday retreat and a year-round home, capable of accommodating various occupants and lifestyles.

The design of Madu is characterized by clarity and intentionality, featuring a combination of modern materials that collectively create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The chosen elements include wood cladding, metal panels, and expansive glass surfaces, each contributing to the overall visual appeal and functionality of the structure. The wood cladding not only adds aesthetic warmth but also signifies a commitment to renewable resources, aligning with the sustainability ethos woven throughout the design. Metal panels enhance durability and reduce maintenance needs, while large glass windows and sliding doors optimize natural light and air circulation, effectively bridging the indoor spaces with the outdoor environment.

A distinctive feature of the Madu project is its adaptive layout. The design includes flexible floor plans that can easily be modified to suit the changing needs of occupants over time. This emphasis on adaptability enhances the project's relevance, allowing it to remain functional in the face of shifting demographics and housing demands. Communal areas, thoughtfully incorporated into the layout, create opportunities for interaction, reinforcing social ties among residents.

In terms of unique design approaches, Madu stands out for its careful consideration of urban context. The structure is sited to maintain a harmonious scale with neighboring homes, avoiding overpowering existing buildings while still making a significant architectural statement. Furthermore, the project incorporates resilient building strategies, such as energy-efficient systems and solar panels, that contribute to its long-term sustainability and operational efficiency. By employing passive housing techniques, Madu effectively reduces energy consumption while ensuring the comfort of its residents.

This project serves as an exemplar of how contemporary architecture can address current social and environmental challenges. It not only focuses on providing housing but also engages with sustainability and community building in a meaningful way. Madu is a clear illustration of how thoughtful architectural decisions can lead to positive outcomes for individuals and communities alike.

For additional insights into this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, further exploration of the presentation materials is encouraged. Engaging with these elements will deepen your understanding of the innovative ideas that underpin the Madu Microhome ADU project and its implications for future architectural practices.
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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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