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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Systems Define Eco-Friendly Community Living

Authors:
Bruno Bondanelli, Dan Tong Liang, Jie Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Systems Define Eco-Friendly Community Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and powered by geothermal systems, the development offers an integrated space for community living, emphasizing sustainability and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates geothermal systems for efficient energy use throughout the community.
03
Features a central plaza designed for multifunctional community engagement.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to ensure structural integrity and sustainability.
05
Emphasizes biophilic design principles, connecting residents with nature through open spaces.

### Project Overview

"The Borough" is designed as an innovative response to contemporary sustainable living, located within an urban context that prioritizes accessibility to transportation networks. This development envisions a self-sustaining village that harmonizes modern technology with the principles of community-oriented living. Each borough is tailored to its specific geographical and resource context, promoting a unique identity while aligning with an overarching framework aimed at fostering connectivity and collaboration among residents.

### Spatial Strategy and User Interaction

The architectural layout prioritizes fluidity and connectivity, utilizing organic forms and curved lines to facilitate movement and interaction. The design intentionally organizes buildings, green spaces, and communal areas to invite engagement, fostering social interactions while enhancing the sense of community. Central to the plan is a multifunctional hub that accommodates a diverse range of uses, including residential units, professional offices, educational facilities, and health services, all structured to promote a vibrant communal life.

### Materials and Sustainability Features

The material palette is carefully selected to enhance sustainability and environmental performance. Recycled local materials reduce transportation emissions, while concrete provides durability and structural stability. Extensive use of glass maximizes natural light, fostering bright, healthy interiors. Wood adds warmth and a connection to nature, while steel reinforces the building’s distinctive forms.

Sustainability is central to the design, featuring systems such as wind and geothermal power for energy efficiency, rainwater harvesting for water conservation, and grey water irrigation to optimize resource use. Additionally, electric heating and cooling systems contribute to lower energy demands. Health check stands are integrated into the community facilities, underscoring the commitment to resident wellness and accessibility.

### Design Outcomes

The comprehensive program is designed to enhance the quality of life for residents, creating a central Plaza that serves as a focal point for community activities, including markets and events. This public space is integral to civic engagement, providing opportunities for interaction and collaboration.

Each iteration of "The Borough" serves as a scalable prototype, reflecting the unique characteristics of its site while promoting ecological sensitivity. Through its thoughtful integration of advanced technologies and community needs, the design presents a model for future urban developments that strive for a balance between environmental stewardship and enhanced quality of life.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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