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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Multifunctional Urban Environment

Author:
Paul Cooksey
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades in a Multifunctional Urban Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a harmonious blend of nature and urban life, serving as a vibrant community hub for diverse social interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates large glass panels to maximize natural light and enhance visual connections to the environment.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that allows for dynamic interior spaces and unique rooflines.
04
Includes integrated rainwater harvesting systems to promote environmental sustainability.
05
Designed with flexible communal areas that foster diverse social interactions among residents.
The architectural design project under analysis presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary building practices, focusing on both functionality and contextual relevance. Located in a vibrant urban setting, this project embodies a commitment to sustainability and innovative design, harmonizing with its environment while addressing the needs of its users.

At its core, the project serves as a multifunctional space catering to a diverse community. The design integrates residential, commercial, and communal areas, fostering a sense of connectivity and interaction among its inhabitants. This multifunctionality is carefully planned to promote social engagement, allowing for a seamless transition from one space to another. The architectural layout encourages movement and enhances the user experience, demonstrating an understanding of how spatial organization impacts daily activities.

The building's facade exemplifies a modern aesthetic characterized by a balance between transparency and solidity. Large glass panels introduce natural light into the interiors, creating bright and welcoming spaces while offering picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful use of glass aligns with the project's sustainability goals, minimizing the need for artificial lighting. In contrast, solid walls are designed to ensure privacy and provide thermal comfort, showcasing the duality of openness and seclusion that is essential in urban architecture.

Key architectural features include a series of terraces and outdoor spaces that extend the living environment beyond the interior confines. These landscaped areas are strategically integrated to enhance the building's ecological footprint, utilizing native plant species and permeable surfaces that promote biodiversity. The various outdoor settings offer residents and visitors alike opportunities for relaxation and socialization, reinforcing the project’s community-focused ethos.

An important aspect of the design is the careful selection of materials. The project employs a palette that includes concrete, glass, steel, wood, and stone, each chosen for its aesthetic qualities and performance attributes. The use of concrete provides structural integrity while allowing the building to maintain a minimalist appearance. Steel elements introduce flexibility in design, contributing to the overall modernity of the project. Wood is utilized not only for its warmth but also for its ecological advantages, adding a biophilic element that fosters a connection to nature.

Moreover, the project incorporates energy-efficient systems and sustainable technologies to reduce its environmental impact. Features such as rainwater harvesting, solar panels, and efficient insulation demonstrate a proactive approach to sustainability. By integrating these systems into the architectural fabric, the design reinforces a commitment to achieving not just functional excellence but also environmental responsibility.

The project's cultural relevance is another significant aspect, reflecting the local heritage and identity of its location. The architects have embraced the context in which the building sits, drawing from traditional forms and materials to inform the design while simultaneously looking forward. This thoughtful integration creates a dialogue between the past and the present, contributing to a sense of place that resonates with the inhabitants and the broader community.

Ultimately, this architectural design project stands as a practical embodiment of modern architecture that prioritizes user needs, community interaction, and environmental sustainability. Visitors to the project will find a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that support a vibrant lifestyle while celebrating the unique cultural context of its location. For those interested in delving deeper into the specific architectural ideas and design elements, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs will provide valuable insights into how these concepts have been practically realized in the project.
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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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