Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Unite in a Flexible Community Hub

Authors:
Shuyang Fang, Tianjian Cheng
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Unite in a Flexible Community Hub

Project in-detail

With a striking combination of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a visually captivating community hub that fosters social interaction and cohesiveness.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to enhance structural integrity while reducing carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame shape allows for optimal natural light and efficient space usage within the interior.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated to promote sustainability and resource management.
05
The project features flexible spaces that adapt to various community functions and events.
Located in a vibrant urban setting, this architectural design project embodies a careful calibration of form, function, and context, resulting in a compelling structure that serves both its immediate users and the broader community. The intention behind the design was to create a multifunctional space that accommodates various activities while fostering social interaction and environmental stewardship. The architecture seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, making it not just a building but part of the urban fabric.

The project serves a dual purpose, functioning primarily as a communal gathering place while also accommodating individual activities. This dual functionality is evident in the layout, which promotes flexibility and responsiveness to the needs of its occupants. Open spaces encourage collaboration, while semi-private areas allow for focused tasks. The result is a harmonious blend of public and private realms, carefully considered to enhance the overall user experience.

One of the most notable elements of the design is the facade, characterized by a dynamic interplay of materials and textures. The use of locally sourced stone not only grounds the project in its geographical context but also reflects a commitment to sustainability and regional architectural traditions. Large expanses of glass invite natural light into the interiors, contributing to a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The transparent sections of the building blur the boundaries between indoors and outdoors, promoting an environment where the interior spaces breathe and engage with the exterior landscape.

The thoughtful selection of materials extends beyond aesthetics; it addresses performance and durability. Reinforced concrete is used for structural elements, providing stability and longevity. Complementing this, timber accents add warmth and texture, enhancing the human scale of the architecture. The careful integration of these materials ensures that the design responds to environmental conditions while delivering a strong visual impact.

Unique to this project is its approach to environmental sustainability. Various strategies have been deployed to minimize energy consumption and reinforce ecological resilience. This includes the installation of green roofs that not only enhance biodiversity but also improve thermal performance. Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated, demonstrating a proactive commitment to resource management. These design choices signify a broader movement within contemporary architecture towards responsible practices that seek to harmonize built environments with nature.

The interior layout is particularly noteworthy for its user-centric design. Spaces are arranged to facilitate a natural flow, allowing occupants to transition seamlessly between communal and private areas. The design embraces the principles of universal accessibility, ensuring that all spaces are usable for a diverse range of individuals. Thoughtfully placed windows and openings create a constant dialogue with the exterior environment, enhancing occupants' connection to the surrounding landscape.

Details such as integrated seating areas, indoor gardens, and multifunctional rooms reflect the design's adaptability, capable of hosting community events, workshops, and exhibitions. These features invite users not only to engage with the building but with one another, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

This architectural design project, through its simple yet profound approach, reflects contemporary ideas of sustainability, community, and adaptability. The blending of functionality with thoughtful design details illustrates a firm understanding of the user's needs and the environment’s demands. To explore the intricate architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that further illustrate this project, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for additional insights and understanding.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy