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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façades Unite in a Sustainable Urban Housing Initiative

Authors:
Hamish Whitefield, Hamid Nouri, Chris Leydier
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Façades Unite in a Sustainable Urban Housing Initiative

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades create a harmonious interplay of materials in a thoughtfully designed urban housing complex that prioritizes community living and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural strength and sustainability.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize space and natural light within residential units.
04
Integrates shared community gardens to encourage interaction among residents.
05
Prioritizes energy-efficient systems to reduce carbon footprint and operational costs.
This architectural design project focuses on providing affordable housing solutions in Toronto, specifically aimed at meeting the urgent needs of the urban population. The design represents a thoughtful and systematic approach to tackling one of the pressing issues facing many Canadian cities—housing affordability and accessibility for diverse residents. The project creatively integrates multiple residential unit types, emphasizing not just the provision of shelter but the nurturing of community life within the city.

The function of the project extends beyond mere housing; it seeks to promote a sense of belonging and support social interaction among residents. Each element of the design is carefully coordinated to enhance the residential experience while fostering connections with the surrounding urban environment. The residential units are thoughtfully designed to accommodate various family sizes and needs, providing options that include studio units, one-bedroom units, two-bedroom units, and three-bedroom units. This variety invites inclusivity, ensuring that individuals from different demographic backgrounds can find suitable living spaces.

A distinctive aspect of the project is its emphasis on spatial configuration. The layout incorporates accessible thresholds and communal spaces designed to promote interaction among residents. By creating public areas such as gardens and pathways, the design encourages community building, transforming these spaces into vibrant hubs for socialization and collaboration. The integration of semi-private spaces, including balconies and shared gardens, enhances this sense of community while respecting the privacy of individual residents.

Circulation patterns within the project are designed to promote pedestrian mobility and encourage sustainable transportation methods. The emphasis on walkability and bicycle access reflects a commitment to environmental principles, diminishing reliance on cars and fostering healthier lifestyles. This approach not only facilitates ease of movement within the residential area but also links the project directly to existing public transportation routes and urban amenities.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the architectural design. While specific materials were not delineated in the imagery, the project conceivably incorporates durable and sustainable materials such as brick, wood, glass, steel, and concrete. These choices underscore the commitment to long-lasting construction while also considering aesthetics and environmental impact. The materials selected serve both functional and visual purposes, creating an inviting atmosphere that resonates with the character of the Toronto landscape.

One of the unique design approaches in this project is the innovative arrangement of building forms. Instead of conforming to traditional, monotonous layouts, the design embraces staggered building forms that facilitate interaction while providing private havens for residents. This strategic layout not only enhances visual interest but also adheres to principles of sustainable design by maximizing natural light and ventilation.

The project encapsulates a mission to reshape the urban residential experience by prioritizing community over isolation, affordability over exclusivity, and sustainability over neglect. Its architectural plans and sections demonstrate a well-considered response to these challenges, presenting a compelling argument for how thoughtful design can contribute to the fabric of urban living.

Furthermore, the visual representation of the project, including renderings and diagrams, effectively communicates the architectural intentions behind the design. These artistic impressions and technical drawings illustrate how the new buildings will harmonize with existing structures, ensuring a seamless integration into the urban landscape while enhancing the overall aesthetic quality of the neighborhood.

In this context, the architectural designs provide a foundation for discussions around modern urban living, inviting potential residents, stakeholders, and the general public to consider the essential role of thoughtful architecture in enriching lives. For those interested in gaining a deeper insight into the project, a review of the architectural ideas and plans will reveal the meticulous thought and effort that informs each aspect of this housing initiative. Exploring the architectural presentation further will enhance understanding of how the project stands poised to make a meaningful impact on the city of Toronto and its residents.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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