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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades Define a Community-Centric Space in Norway

Authors:
Camila Xavier carvalho, Kimberly Puccetti
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades Define a Community-Centric Space in Norway

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive glazed facades, the design serves as a versatile community hub, blending sustainable materials with thoughtful engagement with the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique texture to the façade.
02
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light entry and aids in passive ventilation throughout the building.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce carbon footprint while offering structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Outdoor terraces seamlessly integrate with landscaped areas, promoting social interaction and outdoor activities.
05
The project incorporates local materials to reflect and enhance the cultural identity of its Norwegian setting.
The architectural project under analysis presents a cohesive synthesis of contemporary design principles and functional adaptability. Situated in a landscape that enhances its relationship with the environment, this building serves as a dynamic space tailored for both public engagement and private reflection. Its primary function is to accommodate a community-focused program that encourages interaction and collaboration among its users, showcasing how architecture can facilitate social connections.

At first glance, the design embodies a seamless integration of structure and site. The layout is characterized by fluidity, with an open floor plan that promotes the movement of people and natural light throughout the interior. This approach not only fosters a sense of community but also enhances the overall experience of the space, inviting users to engage with one another and the environment. The building's orientation is strategically aligned to optimize views, harness natural light and reduce energy consumption, illustrating a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

The materiality of the project plays a critical role in articulating its architectural identity. A careful selection of materials, including concrete, glass, and timber, creates a tactile relationship with the surroundings while also ensuring durability and longevity. The concrete structure provides a robust foundation, conveying a sense of permanence and stability. Simultaneously, extensive use of glass offers transparency, fostering visual connections between interior and exterior spaces and allowing occupants to feel a part of the landscape. The incorporation of timber accents introduces warmth and provides an organic contrast to the more industrial elements, enhancing the user's sensory experience within the space.

Unique design approaches are evident in various architectural details, including the roof design, which features an inventive profile that not only serves aesthetic purposes but also contributes to energy efficiency by incorporating natural ventilation strategies. The overhangs are designed to provide shade, minimizing solar gain during peak periods while maximizing daylight penetration during cooler months. This thoughtful consideration of climate-responsive design showcases the architects’ commitment to creating spaces that respect and respond to their environment.

Landscaping elements further enhance the project’s engagement with its surroundings. Outdoor spaces are designed as extensions of the interior, featuring terraces and green areas that promote relaxation and social interaction. These lively external environments encourage users to interact with nature while providing essential amenities for community gatherings and events. The integration of local flora also ensures that the landscape complements the architecture, creating a harmonious balance between built and natural elements.

The architectural design embodies key principles of accessibility and inclusivity, carefully ensuring that all areas are navigable for individuals of varying mobility levels. This commitment reflects a broader understanding of the project's role within the community, emphasizing the importance of creating an inviting and accommodating environment for all users.

As this architectural project reaches completion, it stands as a testament to the potential of design in shaping human interaction and community well-being. The emphasis on sustainable materials, fluid spatial relationships, and thoughtful landscaping culminates in a versatile building that proudly serves its intended purpose. Readers interested in exploring the intricacies of architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs within this project are encouraged to delve deeper into the documentation. Each element of this architectural endeavor underscores a concerted effort to merge functionality with engaging design, providing a foundational space that supports a vibrant community life.
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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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