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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Create Inviting Communal Living Spaces

Author:
Jose Luis
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Create Inviting Communal Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this innovative urban housing development emphasizes community integration while providing flexible and affordable living solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design creates dynamic interior spaces with increased height and openness.
04
Public courtyards are woven throughout the layout to encourage community engagement and interaction.
05
Flexible unit configurations allow for adaptive living arrangements catering to diverse demographics.
The project presents a compelling approach to urban housing, encapsulating the themes of community, sustainability, and spatial efficiency within a contemporary architectural framework. With a clear focus on addressing the complexities of urban living, the design is a response to the pressing need for affordable accommodations in densely populated areas. By integrating various living spaces that cater to diverse demographic requirements, this project promotes a shared sense of belonging while accommodating individual needs.

The architecture embodies the concept of modularity, drawing influence from the interlocking shapes found in the game Tetris. This analogy serves as a guiding principle for the layout, which prioritizes efficient land use without sacrificing community engagement. Each residential unit is designed to coexist harmoniously while allowing for flexible living arrangements, making it a suitable solution in today’s fast-evolving urban landscapes.

A notable feature of the project is its structural form, which consists of angular, interlocking volumes that contrast yet complement the surrounding environment. These volumetric arrangements are carefully considered to enhance daylight access and optimize natural ventilation. Each unit is positioned to maximize views and light while ensuring privacy, creating an inviting atmosphere amidst the urban backdrop. The verticality of the design allows for effective stacking of living spaces, making the best use of the available footprint while fostering a strong sense of place.

Material selection plays a crucial role in this project, as it aims to balance aesthetic appeal with functional requirements. Concrete forms the backbone of the structure, providing durability and visual weight. Expansive glass facades enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to permeate living areas while highlighting the intricacies of the surrounding urban landscape. Stone cladding is incorporated to blend the building with its context, offering texture and warmth to the overall appearance. The use of wood in communal areas not only enriches the visual experience but also promotes a sense of home and encourages social interaction among residents.

Public spaces are deliberately integrated into the overall design, enhancing the communal experience and fostering social interaction. Ground-level layouts include various amenities such as lounges, fitness centers, and flexible multi-use spaces that invite residents to engage and participate in community activities. These shared areas stimulate a sense of community, emphasizing the importance of human interactions in urban environments.

The landscaping design complements the architectural intentions, providing green spaces that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. These areas are designed to promote ecological sustainability while contributing to the overall well-being of residents. Through careful integration of greenery, balconies, and rooftop gardens, the project enriches the urban environment and encourages outdoor activity.

Unique design approaches within this project reflect a thoughtful balance between private and public realms. The inclusion of transparent elements fosters interactions between residents and their environment, while double-height spaces create visual connections across different levels, enhancing spatial experience and cohesion. Innovative design solutions have also been incorporated to ensure adaptability; modular units can be reconfigured to meet changing needs of the community over time.

This project represents a forward-thinking view of urban architecture, one that embraces complexity while seeking to simplify the living experience in the city. By focusing on community-centric design principles and sustainable practices, it sets a precedent for future housing developments.

For those interested in a more in-depth exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas embedded within this project, please continue to review the extensive presentation available for further details and insights.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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