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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Walls in Sustainable Micro-Homes for Community Living

Authors:
Kang Daae , Kim Haelin, Kang Daae
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Walls in Sustainable Micro-Homes for Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, these micro-homes create a flexible, sustainable living environment aimed at fostering community connections among young residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features flexible wall configurations to adapt living spaces for communal needs.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote self-sufficiency.
05
Emphasizes traditional Korean design elements within a modern micro-home framework.

The project focuses on developing community-oriented micro-homes from converted school buildings, specifically addressing the challenges posed by South Korea's declining birth rate and the societal issues stemming from isolation among the youth. This initiative proposes a sustainable living environment where young adults can cultivate connections while residing in adaptable units.

Design Concept and Community Integration

The architectural design aims to create a supportive community for young individuals, transforming closed schools into functional micro-homes. Each unit emphasizes flexibility, allowing residents to configure their living space according to personal needs and communal activities. The integration of shared areas fosters interaction, enhancing social connectivity while countering isolation.

The project reflects a commitment to sustainability through the inclusion of gardens that support ecological practices, such as rainwater harvesting. This innovative water management system is designed to reduce waste and promote responsible use of resources. A notable reference to cultural heritage is evident in the incorporation of traditional Korean architectural elements, which enhances the sense of place and identity.

Architectural Features and Materiality

The architectural approach involves the use of carefully selected materials to ensure both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Key materials include wood for structural integrity and warmth, glass to maximize natural light, and steel to enhance durability. The careful selection of waterproof panels supports sustainable water management, ensuring environmental goals are met without compromising design.

The design employs flexible walls that can transform living spaces, allowing for an adaptable living experience. This reconfiguration capability is vital for accommodating the varied lifestyles of residents. Additionally, common areas are purposefully designed to facilitate social gatherings and community interactions.

Innovative Design Strategies

This project distinguishes itself through the innovative design strategies it employs. By prioritizing vertical and horizontal expansion, the design allows for scalability in response to community needs without a significant increase in land use. The architectural plan incorporates eco-friendly practices that promote a sustainable lifestyle among residents, aligning with modern environmental goals.

The blend of architectural ideas brings together contemporary design with traditional elements, offering a unique living solution that respects cultural heritage while addressing current housing challenges. This approach positions the project as a significant contribution to the discourse on youth housing and community living in urban settings.

Explore the project presentation to gain further insights into architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that detail these innovative concepts and their execution. Understanding the design and structural principles can provide valuable context for this forward-thinking initiative.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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