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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Defining a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Hub

Author:
Yibo Xu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Defining a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Hub

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and extensive glass facades create a harmonious blend of durability and transparency in a community-focused mixed-use hub designed to enhance urban living and connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Extensive use of glass facades promotes natural light and visual connectivity with the surroundings.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural performance while creating unique interior spaces.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
05
Integrated green spaces are woven throughout the development to encourage community interaction.
The LinkNest Center is an architectural project located in Hangzhou, China, designed to serve as a multifunctional space that bridges work, leisure, and community interaction. Covering an area of 13,007.07 square meters with a total built area of 70,500.47 square meters, this project is positioned near West Lake, an area known for its aesthetic and cultural significance. It aims to provide essential services and facilities for both local residents and the migrant workforce, promoting inclusivity and community engagement through its well-considered design.

The LinkNest Center embodies a comprehensive approach toward spatial organization and functionality. It features a series of interconnected buildings that include high-rise office towers, residential units, recreational areas, and green spaces. This blend of functions allows for a seamless integration that addresses the diverse needs of the community. The architectural design fosters interaction among different user groups, creating opportunities for social engagement while also serving as a hub for various economic activities.

Integration of Work and Community

One of the distinguishing features of the LinkNest Center is its focus on creating a harmonious balance between work and leisure. The design incorporates commercial spaces alongside residential units and recreational areas, facilitating a mixed-use environment. This layout encourages users to engage in various activities without the need to travel far, consequently supporting a more sustainable urban lifestyle. The communal areas, such as the landscaped gardens and recreational facilities, are strategically placed to enhance connectivity and foster a sense of belonging among users.

Innovative Material Usage

The choice of materials in the LinkNest Center reflects a commitment to both aesthetic appeal and functionality. Reinforced concrete forms the structural backbone of the project, providing durability and robustness essential for high-rise configurations. Extensive glass facades are utilized to maximize natural light, contributing to energy efficiency while offering clear views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the use of wood and natural finishes in communal areas introduces warmth to the environment, adhering to biophilic design principles that emphasize the connection between nature and the built environment.

Design for Accessibility

The LinkNest Center prioritizes accessibility in its architectural design. Multiple entry points and well-defined circulation paths facilitate movement throughout the site, ensuring that all areas are easily reachable for residents and visitors alike. Careful consideration of pedestrian and vehicular flows minimizes congestion, creating an efficient and user-friendly environment. This focus on accessibility enhances the project's effectiveness as a community center and supports its role as a vital urban resource.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and technical aspects, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of the LinkNest Center. These documents provide deeper insights into the project’s design methodologies and spatial configurations. Engage with the elements presented to gain a thorough perspective on how this project meets the modern demands of urban living.
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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
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