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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Unite in Vertical Community Living

Authors:
Omar El remissy, Ahmed Gado
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facades Unite in Vertical Community Living

Project in-detail

With an engaging interplay of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a connected community experience in a dynamic high-rise dedicated to contemporary urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles as an innovative facade treatment for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels for both structural integrity and sustainable construction.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and maximize usable space.
04
Provides integrated community spaces at ground level, fostering social interaction within an urban setting.
05
Includes green terraces that promote biodiversity and improve residents' connection to nature.
The architectural design project under review represents a cohesive vision for high-density living in Essen, Germany. This project acknowledges the need for innovative residential solutions that harmonize with urban dynamics while promoting a sustainable lifestyle. It focuses on the integration of residential and communal spaces, allowing them to coexist within a single towering structure. The design embodies a contemporary approach to architecture, emphasizing community engagement alongside personal living experiences.

At the core of the project is a dual-tower formation characterized by a unique massing strategy. The combination of vertical and horizontal elements creates a sense of rhythm and visual interest, inviting engagement from both residents and passersby. The towers are thoughtfully designed, with cantilevered balconies and terraces that extend outward, offering residents private outdoor spaces while providing a sense of openness and connectivity to the surrounding environment. This architectural move supports the idea of vertical living without sacrificing the benefits of outdoor space.

The function of the project is primarily residential, yet it aims to cultivate a sense of community by incorporating public amenities at ground level. These public spaces facilitate interaction among residents and enhance the vibrancy of the streetscape. The design includes areas for recreation and social gatherings, which are strategically placed to encourage a shared experience among users. The architects have succeeded in creating spaces that meet the practical needs of urban living while also fostering a sense of belonging within the community.

Materiality is another essential aspect of the project, reflecting a balanced consideration of aesthetics and functionality. The careful selection of materials, such as glass, steel, concrete, and wood, demonstrates a modern architectural ethos. Glass plays a significant role in the facade, allowing for ample natural light and providing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. Steel is utilized for structural elements that enable bold design choices, while concrete ensures stability and durability. The use of wood in interior finishes introduces warmth, enhancing the residential experience.

A notable feature of this architectural design is how it transcends the conventional separation of public and private realms. By emphasizing interconnected spaces, the project encourages social interaction both within the towers and with the broader urban fabric. This unique design approach aligns with contemporary desires for connectivity and community, ensuring that each resident feels both integrated and supported within the living environment. The architect has effectively challenged the traditional high-rise model, proposing a design that enriches urban life rather than isolating it.

Sustainability is subtly woven into the fabric of the project, even if it is not overtly highlighted. The emphasis on energy-efficient materials and potential green spaces suggests an awareness of environmental impacts and long-term sustainability. Integrating green roofs and terraces contributes to urban biodiversity while promoting healthy living environments. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also serve practical purposes, promoting energy conservation and improving residents' quality of life.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of this innovative project, an exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and design details is highly encouraged. This presentation captures the essence of the architectural ideas and reflects the careful thought that has gone into each aspect of the design. By examining these elements, readers can appreciate the finer points that make this project a thoughtful contribution to urban architecture in Essen.
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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
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