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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Elements Define A Modular Community Living Solution

Authors:
Crispim Cabral bernardo, Hou in Choi, Yashraj Shetty
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Elements Define A Modular Community Living Solution

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass panels, the design facilitates a modular approach to community living while promoting flexibility and social interaction among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural stability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Promotes modular living through adaptable configurations of residential cells.
05
Integrates green planters throughout communal areas for ecological benefit.
“The Hive” is an architectural project designed to address the urgent need for affordable housing in urban environments. Located in Melbourne, Australia, this design employs a modular approach, consisting of independent living cells that can be arranged in various configurations. The project emphasizes flexibility, sustainability, and community living, providing a practical solution to contemporary housing challenges.

The primary components of “The Hive” revolve around two types of residential modules—Type One and Type Two. Type One serves individuals or couples, offering a simple yet effective layout. Type Two caters to groups or families, emphasizing shared spaces and interaction among residents. This arrangement fosters a vibrant community atmosphere, thereby enhancing the living experience of inhabitants.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive features of “The Hive” is its modular design. This approach allows for adaptability, enabling the composition of different living arrangements according to the residents' needs. The use of standardized components simplifies construction and reduces costs, making this model viable for mass production.

Material selection also stands out in this project. The exterior employs wooden cladding, providing warmth and an aesthetic connection to the natural environment. Glass panels are abundant throughout the design, facilitating natural light and visual connectivity between interiors and exteriors. The structural framework consists of reinforced concrete, ensuring durability while meeting the demands of urban living.

Community Interaction

Design elements that promote community engagement are integrated throughout the project. The arrangement of living cells creates communal spaces surrounded by greenery. This not only enhances the physical environment but also encourages social interaction among residents, aligning with modern trends in communal living. The incorporation of outdoor planters and green areas enhances the ecological aspect of the design while providing a pleasant living environment.

To delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design features of “The Hive,” readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive details available in the project presentation. This exploration will provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas and principles that underpin this innovative housing solution.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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