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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Create Harmonious Coastal Living

Author:
Harri Ahonen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Create Harmonious Coastal Living

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades seamlessly connecting to the coastal landscape, this residential complex offers a sustainable living experience that fosters community interaction while prioritizing environmental harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance and weather durability.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for both structural strength and aesthetic appeal, promoting sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space while creating a unique exterior profile that harmonizes with the landscape.
04
Natural ventilation shafts are integrated to improve air circulation and energy efficiency within the units.
05
The central courtyard serves as a multifunctional space, encouraging community interaction while providing a serene environment.
The architectural project "Atrium" presents an insightful interpretation of contemporary residential design, focusing on the interplay between form, function, and the surrounding environment. Located near a beach, this design endeavors to create a harmonious relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting the natural landscape into the living experience. The project represents a modern response to traditional architectural elements, melding aesthetic appeal with practical living solutions.

At its core, the design of "Atrium" serves multiple functions, prioritizing not only individual comfort but also fostering a sense of community among residents. The layout features symmetrical apartment arrangements adjacent to a central courtyard, which acts as a social hub, facilitating interaction and engagement. This thoughtful configuration encourages a communal lifestyle, where residents can enjoy both privacy and shared activities in a serene setting. The architecture integrates elements that promote natural ventilation and light, achieving a balance between exposure to the outdoors and internal coziness.

Key components of the design include open-plan living areas that maximize spatial efficiency while also allowing flexibility for daily activities. Each individual unit features well-defined zones that cater to different functions, ensuring that the concept of home encompasses both practicality and comfort. The strategic use of glass facades enhances the connection to the environment, providing occupants with unobstructed views of the beach and surrounding greenery.

The design employs an eclectic mix of materials, carefully chosen to resonate with both aesthetic and functional requirements. Metal sheets provide durability and a modern edge, while timber panels introduce warmth and a sense of connection to nature. Plywood and concrete are utilized for structural integrity, affirming the sustainability of the building approach. This combination of materials not only enhances the visual dynamics of the project but also serves the broader objectives of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

One of the unique design approaches in this project is the incorporation of enclosed courtyards, which facilitate a versatile living environment. The atrium acts as a central feature, inspiring residents to engage in social activities while providing a retreat for reflection or relaxation. This integration of open and closed spaces within the same framework illustrates an innovative method to enhance communal living without compromising personal privacy.

The architectural design reflects a keen awareness of the surrounding coastal environment, ensuring that the building adapts to its location. The orientation of all units towards the landscape not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also acknowledges the importance of connection to nature in modern living. By placing emphasis on sustainable practices, the project encourages a lifestyle that harmonizes with environmental considerations.

As you delve deeper into the "Atrium" project, consider exploring the architectural plans and sections that detail the functional relationships between different spaces within this design. An examination of the architectural ideas behind the layout and material choices will provide greater insight into how this project navigates the complexities of contemporary residential architecture. By engaging with the presentation, you can appreciate the thoughtful interactions between the physical environment and the designed spaces, enriching your understanding of this sensitive and community-focused architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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