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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façades Defining a Multi-Use Urban Space

Authors:
Mauro Moro, Asile Wong, Ellyn Tien
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façades Defining a Multi-Use Urban Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades, the design creates a cohesive urban environment that seamlessly integrates community spaces with educational functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features large glass façades that maximize natural light and visual connectivity with the surroundings.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to create dynamic interior spaces and visual interest.
05
Includes integrated landscapes that enhance biodiversity and encourage community interaction.
The project "Past Present" is an architectural endeavor that intricately combines contemporary design principles with a reflection on historical context. Situated in a vibrant urban environment, the architecture is tailored to facilitate interaction and engagement with both its users and the surrounding community. The design considers functionality, aesthetic coherence, and the interplay between public and private spaces.

At its core, this project represents a dialogue between past architectural elements and modern requirements. The concept is rooted in the exploration of time, characterized by three principles: Shift, Elevate, and Peel. These principles drive the manipulation of space, promoting movement and connection within the structure while fostering an evolving relationship between the architecture and its context.

Integration of Space and Community

The layout of "Past Present" is strategically designed to enhance public interaction. The ground level features an open plaza, serving as an inviting entry point and communal hub. This space encourages pedestrian movement and interaction among visitors, reflecting the importance of social engagement in urban areas. The layering of spaces—from basement utility areas to the rooftop garden—facilitates both operational efficiency and user experience.

Each level of the building is programmed to accommodate various functions, including exhibition areas, classrooms, and flexible event rooms. The design promotes adaptability, allowing spaces to be easily transformed to meet diverse requirements. The inclusion of natural elements, such as integrated gardens and landscaping, further enhances the user experience and contributes to environmental sustainability.

Unique Design Approaches

What distinguishes "Past Present" is its innovative approach to materiality and spatial design. The use of glass throughout the façade creates transparency, bridging the demarcation between indoor and outdoor environments. This choice allows for natural light penetration and visual connectivity with the surroundings. Steel and wood materials are employed within the structure to provide both strength and warmth, effectively balancing modernity with comfort.

The architectural design incorporates cultural and historical motifs into its surface treatments. These artistic elements connect the structure to its locality, providing a narrative layer that enriches the user experience. Additionally, the designs foster an immersive environment, encouraging creativity and exploration through multimedia integration. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces ensures that each area serves a specific purpose while maintaining an overarching design philosophy rooted in community connectivity.

To gain a more profound understanding of the features and functionalities of the "Past Present" project, explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs presented in the project documentation. Engaging with these elements will offer a comprehensive insight into the innovative architectural ideas that define this significant design undertaking.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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