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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Layouts in Sustainable Urban Housing

Authors:
Marcus Froste, Elin Delmar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Layouts in Sustainable Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a modular design, the project redefines affordable living in urban settings by transforming underused space into adaptable, community-focused residential units.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features modular layouts that allow for personalized living configurations.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Includes communal gardens designed to foster community interaction among residents.
05
Located in an urban area, focusing on the adaptive reuse of existing housing stock.
The project "Half an Apartment" addresses the pressing housing crisis in London by proposing a novel design solution that repurposes underutilized properties. It targets unused residential units, transforming them into multi-family living spaces that are affordable and adaptable. This initiative emphasizes sustainability and social interaction, creating environments conducive to community building.

Modular architecture forms the foundation of this design. The residential units are structured around interchangeable modules, allowing residents to personalize their living spaces according to their specific needs. Each module serves distinct functions—living areas, workspaces, and communal facilities—resulting in versatile configurations suitable for various family sizes and lifestyles. The thoughtful integration of large windows ensures natural light permeates the interior spaces, enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Sustainable Materials and Environmental Integration

The design employs a range of materials, including wood, metal, glass, brick, and stone. Wood provides a lightweight yet sturdy structural support, while metal components enhance durability and longevity. Glass is strategically used to create openings that improve ventilation and natural light, promoting an energy-efficient environment. Brick and stone reference London's architectural heritage, maintaining visual continuity with the urban context.

Unique to this project is its community-centric approach, which fosters interaction among residents. Shared amenities such as gardens and communal kitchens are incorporated, promoting social connections and collaboration among inhabitants. This design philosophy contrasts with typical residential developments, which often prioritize individual units over shared spaces. By integrating common areas within the architecture, the project encourages a sense of belonging and community.

Modular Design and Adaptability

The modular aspect of "Half an Apartment" is particularly relevant in urban settings where housing needs can vary significantly. The flexibility afforded by interchangeable modules allows residents to adapt their living arrangements as circumstances change, catering to evolving familial or communal requirements. This adaptability not only meets the immediate housing demand in London but also provides a long-term solution that can evolve with the community.

The architectural plans illustrate a multifunctional layout that optimizes the use of space while taking into consideration the urban fabric. Building sections showcase the interactions between individual units and communal spaces, highlighting the project's intent to offer both privacy and shared experiences.

For those interested in understanding the architectural design in greater depth, examining the architectural plans, sections, and design strategies will provide valuable insights into how "Half an Apartment" effectively marries functionality with sustainability and community. This project stands as an insightful case study for urban housing solutions in densely populated environments. Explore the project presentation to gain a comprehensive view of its architectural ideas and design outcomes.
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Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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