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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geometric Forms Enhancing Community Living in Modular Housing

Author:
Scott Zhou
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geometric Forms Enhancing Community Living in Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and modular geometric forms, the design integrates sustainable materials and natural light to create adaptable community living spaces that emphasize ecological harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and provide a unique aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved thermal performance and structural integrity.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and natural light throughout the interior.
04
Designed with modular components that can be easily expanded or reconfigured as needed.
05
Promotes community interaction through clustered living spaces that facilitate shared resources and social engagement.
The Eco Hive project represents a thoughtful exploration of modern architectural design, addressing pressing issues in sustainable living and urban housing. This project seeks to create a harmonious relationship between occupants and their environment, promoting a lifestyle centered around community, adaptability, and ecological responsibility.

At its essence, the Eco Hive is a modular housing solution that draws inspiration from natural structures, particularly the cooperative systems found in hives. This design philosophy encapsulates the fluidity of living spaces while catering to the diverse needs of residents. Each unit functions independently yet can be interlinked with others, fostering a sense of community while allowing for privacy and autonomy. This adaptability is key, as it creates opportunities for occupants to tailor their living spaces according to personal preferences and needs.

The architectural design of the Eco Hive prioritizes functionality and environmental efficiency. The structure is crafted with an array of materials selected for their sustainable characteristics, contributing to the overall eco-friendly ethos of the project. Reinforced concrete provides the necessary structural support, while expansive glass elements are designed to maximize natural light and offer expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The use of sustainable wood for interior finishes adds warmth and maintains a connection to nature, while metal cladding offers durability and protection against the elements.

A notable feature of the Eco Hive is its emphasis on natural lighting and ventilation. Large windows and strategically placed openings foster an airy atmosphere within each unit, enhancing the quality of life for residents. The architectural layout promotes effective passive heating and cooling, reducing reliance on artificial climate control and further supporting sustainability initiatives. By integrating renewable energy solutions, the Eco Hive project effectively minimizes its environmental footprint.

In addition to its environmental considerations, the Eco Hive’s design embodies a strong sense of community. The modularity of the units allows for the creation of small living clusters, encouraging social interaction among residents and facilitating a shared sense of belonging. This arrangement not only addresses the living requirements of individuals but also enriches community ties, which are often lacking in more conventional housing models.

What sets the Eco Hive apart is its unique combination of modularity and ecological mindfulness. This design approach allows for rapid deployment in urban environments, addressing urgent housing needs while minimizing construction time and investment. The intelligent use of geometric patterns and organic shapes ensures that the structure integrates smoothly into its surroundings, thus reducing the visual impact on the natural landscape.

The Eco Hive project highlights the potential of architecture to respond meaningfully to contemporary challenges in urban development and environmental sustainability. It offers a practical and aesthetically pleasing solution to housing by emphasizing community, adaptability, and ecological principles. Readers interested in a deeper exploration of the project's architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas are encouraged to review the project presentation for further insights. This analysis of the Eco Hive illustrates the capability of modern architecture to define how we live and interact within our environments while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and community engagement.
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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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