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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Shoji Walls Shape A Community-Centric Space In Iceland

Author:
Sijia Wu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Shoji Walls Shape A Community-Centric Space In Iceland

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and adaptable Shoji walls, the design creates an engaging communal space in Iceland that fosters sustainability and interaction while prioritizing educational initiatives.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability while creating a unique aesthetic.
02
Flexible Shoji walls allow for adaptable spatial configurations, enabling the space to transform based on community needs.
03
An organic waste treatment area is integrated into the design, promoting local recycling practices and sustainability.
04
The project features a community garden specifically designed for educational purposes surrounding organic farming.
05
Biodiversity is supported through the inclusion of a roof garden that serves both as recreational space and ecological habitat.
The project encapsulates a transformative approach to architecture, focusing on fostering community engagement and promoting sustainability. Rooted in the principles of environmental consciousness, this architectural design seeks to create a functional space that resonates with its surroundings while actively involving its users in sustainable practices. By designing an environment that serves as both an educational and interactive platform, the project facilitates an understanding of ecological responsibility and community connectivity.

The architecture of the project emphasizes a clear intention to integrate natural elements with built forms. One of the standout features is the spatial organization, which is thoughtfully designed to cater to various functional requirements. The layout includes distinct areas, such as an organic waste treatment facility and a community garden designated for teaching residents about organic farming and soil health. This multifunctional aspect of the design highlights its purpose as an educational hub, aiming to instill sustainable practices in individuals of all ages.

The project also incorporates a roof garden that not only contributes to biodiversity but serves as a recreational space for residents to gather and interact. The second-hand collection area emerges as a unique component, encouraging the exchange of goods, thus aligning with the principles of a circular economy. The thoughtful integration of these areas showcases a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can influence lifestyle and behavior by promoting sharing and recycling among community members.

A significant design aspect is the incorporation of flexible spaces, exemplified by the use of Shoji walls, which allow the layout to adapt according to the activities taking place. This level of flexibility reinforces the building's functionality by enabling it to accommodate a wide range of community programs and events. Additionally, the strategic use of local materials, including wood, stone, and concrete, is not only essential for structural integrity but also reinforces the project’s commitment to sustainability by minimizing transportation emissions and supporting local economies.

Attention to detail is an integral part of the project’s design ethos. The materials chosen are not just functional; they create a dialogue with the environment, enhancing the aesthetic appeal while promoting a sense of place. The warm tones of wood contrast with the ruggedness of stone and the solidity of concrete, allowing the building to resonate with the Icelandic landscape. This careful consideration of materiality reflects an understanding of how architecture can connect inhabitants to their natural surroundings.

What sets this project apart is its genuine focus on community involvement. By integrating educational programs that focus on recycling and organic planting, the design fosters a collective ethos of sustainability. Workshops and classes aimed at different demographics ensure that knowledge is shared across age groups, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship within the community.

Overall, this architectural project presents a cohesive vision that balances functionality with environmental responsibility, cultivating a space that is as much about education and community as it is about structure. The innovative design concepts will surely resonate with those engaged in architectural discussions, encouraging further exploration of the project’s architectural plans, sections, and designs. Readers interested in understanding the underlying architectural ideas are invited to delve into the project presentation for a comprehensive look at how these elements come together in a meaningful way.
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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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