Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façades Enhancing Community Interaction in Urban Mixed-Use Design

Authors:
Emre Özcan, Onur İlgÖz, Kerem Aydin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façades Enhancing Community Interaction in Urban Mixed-Use Design

Project in-detail

With a façade of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass openings that invite natural light, the design creates adaptable community spaces that seamlessly blend urban living with sustainable principles.
5 key facts about this project
01
The bent A-frame structure allows for enhanced natural ventilation and light distribution throughout the building.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide a durable, fire-resistant exterior with a distinctive aesthetic appeal.
03
Community spaces are designed with flexible layouts to accommodate a variety of functions and events.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are used not only for sustainability but also to reduce construction time and waste.
05
Landscaped rooftop gardens support biodiversity and create additional recreational areas for occupants.
The architectural project in question stands as a thoughtful embodiment of contemporary design principles while addressing practical community needs. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this development is designed to serve multiple functions, enhancing both the physical architecture and the social fabric of the area. The overall structure reflects a modernist aesthetic, characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and a connection to nature, which is increasingly vital in urban environments.

At its core, the project represents a fusion of functionality and sustainability, designed to encourage social interaction and foster community ties. The careful arrangement of spaces allows for a variety of uses, catering to both individuals and groups. This flexibility is a crucial aspect of the design, making it adaptable to different events and activities. The architects have thoughtfully included communal areas that invite people to gather, along with private spaces that provide a refuge for contemplation and relaxation. This duality of function enhances its appeal, ensuring it meets diverse user needs.

The façade of the building is thoughtfully designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape while maintaining a distinctive identity. Large expanses of glass create a sense of transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors and establishing a visual connection with the outside world. This approach not only reduces the reliance on artificial lighting but also enhances the occupants' experience, allowing them to remain engaged with the changing environment. The panelling system features a harmonious mix of materials, with wood accents adding warmth and a tactile element to the exterior, while durable materials provide long-term resilience to weathering.

Inside, the layout promotes an intuitive flow from public to private areas, encouraging exploration and discovery within the space. Carefully considered sightlines guide visitors throughout the building, enhancing the sense of space and movement. Each room is designed with an eye toward function and comfort, featuring the use of natural materials that are both sustainable and aesthetically pleasing. The choice of finishes, colors, and furnishings reflects a cohesive design philosophy that prioritizes user experience.

Particular attention has been paid to outdoor integration, with landscaped areas seamlessly extending the interior functionality of the project. Roof gardens and terraces provide additional recreational zones while contributing to the overall sustainability of the project through urban greening. These spaces not only enhance the aesthetic quality of the architecture but also improve air quality and promote biodiversity within an urban setting. The incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems, along with sustainable landscaping practices, exemplifies a commitment to environmental stewardship, further solidifying the project’s role as a community asset.

Unique design elements can be seen throughout the project, particularly in the use of modular systems that enhance efficient construction timelines while allowing for future adaptability. This approach not only minimises waste during the building process but also leaves room for future expansions or modifications, ensuring the structure can evolve alongside the community it serves.

The architectural design of this project demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of modern living, striking a balance between aesthetic appeal and practical functionality. It fosters a sense of belonging and encourages a communal atmosphere through its various spaces and thoughtfully considered design elements. For a complete exploration of this exemplary architectural project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural ideas, readers are encouraged to delve further into the project presentation, which reveals the depth and detail of this engaging design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy