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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Community-Focused Living Space

Authors:
Lisa-maria Gross, Christina Gross
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Community-Focused Living Space

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this community-centered living space redefines urban connectivity in Rome's San Lorenzo district.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for a unique aesthetic and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance sustainability and structural efficiency.
03
Features expansive glass facades that promote natural light and visual connections to the surroundings.
04
Includes dedicated communal areas designed to foster interaction among residents.
05
Integrates a bent A-frame design, optimizing space while providing a distinctive architectural silhouette.
The architectural project designed for the VIA DEI SABELLI site in Rome's San Lorenzo district is a thoughtful integration of communal living within an urban context. This design represents a shift in urban housing solutions, focusing on the importance of community, accessibility, and sustainability. Positioned strategically amid a dense neighborhood, the project serves to fill urban voids that have long hindered the continuity of the area’s built environment.

At its core, this project functions to provide affordable living spaces while fostering an inclusive atmosphere for residents. The design prioritizes shared communal spaces that encourage interaction among inhabitants and create a vibrant community life. By incorporating elements such as libraries, shared kitchens, meditation areas, and rooftop gardens, the project addresses the needs of modern urban dwellers while promoting social engagement, thereby enhancing the overall quality of life in the area.

One of the important details of the project is its approach to mass and form. The buildings are articulated in a manner that reflects flexibility and adaptation, allowing for a variety of living and communal arrangements. This segmentation of the structure not only provides visual interest but also helps create distinct identity points within the complex, enabling residents to find their niche within a larger community.

Materiality plays a critical role in this project's success. The use of glass serves to create transparency and connection with the surroundings, enabling natural light to flow inside and allowing residents to feel linked to the vibrant street life outside. Concrete is employed extensively for structural integrity, providing a robust framework that contrasts with the lighter glass elements, creating a balance between solidity and openness. Wood is also used in key communal areas to introduce warmth and a sense of comfort, reinforcing the welcoming spirit of the residence.

The landscaping approach enhances the overall design by integrating greenery within and around the buildings. The inclusion of communal rooftop gardens not only contributes to the ecological footprint of the project but also provides residents with essential recreational spaces amidst the urban setting. These zones promote biodiversity and serve as gathering places for residents, further reinforcing the communal aspect of living.

Circulation design is carefully considered to ensure that movement through the spaces is intuitive and fluid. By minimizing barriers and designing layouts that promote interaction, the project encourages a sense of belonging among neighbors, making it easier for residents to engage with one another. This thoughtful layout reinforces the project's primary aim of community living, positioning it as a model for future urban developments.

The allocation of space within the project is also noteworthy. Private flats occupy a significant percentage of the total area while allowing for a wide range of configurations tailored to different family sizes and living arrangements. Meanwhile, dedicated community areas account for a substantial portion of the development, ensuring that communal life is an integral part of the architectural fabric.

In summary, the VIA DEI SABELLI project is a reflection of contemporary architectural ideas that seek to evolve urban living by weaving together private and communal experiences. Through innovative design approaches and a thoughtful selection of materials, it stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to foster community engagement while addressing the realities of urban density. For a deeper understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, sections, and designs, diving into the details of this well-conceived urban living solution.
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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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