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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Creating Shared Spaces in Urban Living

Author:
Jonas sweeney Andresen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Creating Shared Spaces in Urban Living

Project in-detail

With a design characterized by charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this urban residence seamlessly combines adaptive living spaces with vibrant community gardens to enhance social interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing both durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enable rapid construction while providing sustainable structural support.
03
A unique bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and captures natural light effectively.
04
Community gardens are integrated within the layout, promoting ecological sustainability and social interaction.
05
Customizable living spaces allow residents to adapt their homes based on evolving needs and preferences.
The architectural project located in South West London represents a thoughtful response to contemporary urban living, focusing on community interaction, sustainability, and innovative design. This residential development is conceptualized as a "responsive city," where the built environment encourages social engagement and individual expression. The design seeks to create interconnected spaces that enhance the quality of life for its residents while maintaining a strong relationship with the surrounding natural environment.

At the core of the project lies the idea of flexibility. The design includes modular building forms that allow for adaptability in both individual living spaces and communal areas. Each residential unit is crafted to maximize natural light and promote outdoor connections, breaking away from traditional closed-off housing models. With transparent materials, primarily glass, as key design elements, the architecture fosters a sense of openness that aligns with modern living trends. The use of wood for structural and aesthetic purposes integrates warmth and sustainability, reflecting a commitment to eco-friendly practices.

The project’s function extends beyond mere shelter; it serves as a catalyst for community bonding and interaction, placing emphasis on shared spaces. Community gardens and public facilities, such as a center for local activities and a kindergarten, are integral to the design. These elements are strategically positioned to encourage residents of all ages to gather, engage, and build relationships, thereby nurturing a sense of belonging and collaboration. The availability of communal spaces is pivotal in promoting social interaction, essential in urban settings where isolation can be a concern.

In addition to its social functions, the project prioritizes sustainability through innovative architectural ideas. Features such as natural ventilation systems, spaces for solar energy collection, and rainwater harvesting provisions underline a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. Such considerations ensure that the architecture responds to ecological demands while serving the occupants effectively. The integration of landscaped areas with native flora not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to biodiversity, creating a living environment that respects its ecological context.

One unique aspect of this project is the individualization of living spaces. The design allows for personal modifications, empowering residents to shape their environments based on their lifestyle needs. This adaptability is accomplished through flexible floor plans and multi-purpose spaces that enable residents to reconfigure their homes as needed. This thoughtful design approach caters to diverse family structures and reflects a contemporary understanding of living patterns.

Moreover, the location itself in South West London plays a crucial role in the project’s narrative. Situated amidst a blend of urban life and natural landscapes, the design respects the historical context while also embracing modernity. The architectural design acknowledges the existing urban fabric, positioning itself as a seamless extension of the community rather than a disruption. This sensitivity to context further reinforces the project’s emphasis on fostering connections—both among residents and with the surrounding environment.

This architectural project speaks to important contemporary issues, such as the need for sustainable living, community integration, and personalization in urban spaces. Its emphasis on adaptable design, along with a commitment to ecological responsibility, positions it as a forward-thinking example of community-oriented architecture. For those interested in exploring this innovative approach further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs can provide insightful details about how these elements come together to create a cohesive vision. Engaging with the architectural ideas presented will deepen the understanding of the project's potential impact on urban living in the years to come.
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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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