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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Lift Platforms Enhance Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Jeffrey Lam, Douglas Leung
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Lift Platforms Enhance Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and flexible lift platforms, the design maximizes spatial efficiency while fostering community interactions in a compact urban living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and low maintenance.
02
Incorporates flexible lift platforms for multifunctional use of space.
03
Features large glass panels to optimize natural light and connections to the outdoors.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance.
05
Integrates passive design strategies to reduce energy consumption.
The architectural project located in Suginami, Tokyo, emphasizes the principles of Micro-metabolism, reflecting a responsive design that adapts to the demands of urban living. This project addresses the challenge of limited space in densely populated areas, aiming to enhance the function and experience of small-scale living. Its design integrates various living spaces and communal areas, fostering a sense of connection among residents while maintaining individual privacy.

The project features multiple lift platforms that organize the interior layout into distinct areas, each designed for specific functions. These platforms facilitate movement and interaction within the space, allowing users to transition seamlessly from private to communal settings. The versatility of the design allows the platforms to serve as dining areas, storage, and living spaces, maximizing usability in a compact footprint.

The material palette consists of wood, glass, concrete, and steel, chosen for their structural properties and aesthetic qualities. Wood contributes warmth to the interior, while glass enhances natural light flow and visual continuity between indoor and outdoor environments. Concrete ensures robustness, providing the necessary structural integrity for multi-level spaces. Steel elements support the overall framework while adding a modern touch to the architectural expression.

Active design strategies distinguish this project from similar residential structures. The incorporation of movable lift platforms introduces a dynamic element to the architecture, allowing for adaptable living arrangements that respond to individual needs. Additionally, passive design features such as thermal mass and strategic orientation contribute to energy efficiency, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems.

The layout emphasizes community engagement, fostering social interactions through shared spaces integrated with the building’s design. These communal areas facilitate connections between residents while respecting personal privacy, reinforcing the project's focus on harmonious urban living.

For an in-depth examination of this innovative architectural project, explore the presentation to see architectural plans, sections, and design details that illustrate the thoughtful integration of space and functionality within this significant urban environment.
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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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