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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades Transforming Urban Spaces Into Community Hubs

Author:
Minh-Quang DANG
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades Transforming Urban Spaces Into Community Hubs

Project in-detail

The use of charred wooden shingles and a seamless integration of glazed façades redefines urban space, offering a dynamic community hub that fosters cultural engagement and learning.
5 key facts about this project
01
The façade incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing fire resistance and providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural elements, promoting sustainability while reducing construction time.
03
Modular interiors allow for flexible space usage, adapting to a variety of community functions and events.
04
A deep overhang design mitigates solar heat gain while enhancing the building's visual appeal.
05
Green terraces integrate native plant species, promoting biodiversity and improving urban ecology.
The M.I. London Museum is a thoughtful architectural project that embodies a harmonious interplay between historical preservation and contemporary design. Situated in the heart of London, this project seeks to revitalize an underutilized urban site by transforming it into a vibrant cultural destination. The design serves multiple functions, from housing exhibitions and educational programs to facilitating community interactions, thereby reinforcing the museum's role as a key player in the cultural fabric of the city.

The architecture represents a bridge between the past and present. By maintaining the integrity of the existing structures while introducing modern elements, the project respects the historical significance of the site. The design thoughtfully integrates the old museum with new architectural forms, creating an inclusive environment that invites public engagement. The intention is to foster a sense of connection not only among visitors but also between the museum and its urban surroundings.

Significant elements of the project include its envelope spaces, which function as transitional zones that enhance the user experience. These areas are designed to encourage social interaction, making them ideal for informal gatherings, workshops, and events. The choice of materials is deliberate and reflects a commitment to quality and sustainability. The use of exposed brick and reinforced concrete aligns with the historical context while providing a modern aesthetic that appeals to today's audiences. Additionally, glazed façades are strategically utilized to maximize natural light and connection to the outdoors, ensuring a warm and inviting atmosphere inside.

The structural design incorporates a robust piling system that accommodates both the new and existing structures, emphasizing the importance of stability and continuity. This thoughtful approach allows for flexibility in space usage, with modular partitions that can be adapted to fit a variety of programs, thus meeting the evolving needs of the community. Each area within the museum is intentionally laid out, promoting fluid movement and facilitating an intuitive exploration of exhibits and activities.

Exterior design features play a crucial role in defining the project's character. The façade of the new building complements the historical aspects of the old station while introducing dynamic forms that reflect contemporary architectural trends. The integration of terraces and green spaces not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the design but also promotes environmental sustainability, contributing positively to the urban landscape.

One of the unique design approaches evident in the M.I. London Museum is its community-centric philosophy. By engaging local residents and integrating spaces for public participation, the design seeks to create a sense of ownership among visitors. This focus on inclusivity is important in modern architecture, where the relationship between the built environment and the community it serves is increasingly recognized as vital to a project's success.

Overall, the M.I. London Museum stands as a testament to the possibilities of thoughtful architectural design. It underscores the significance of blending historical context with contemporary functionality, creating a space that not only preserves the past but also embraces the future. This project encourages a deeper understanding of architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that drive the vision behind such developments. Readers are invited to explore the project presentation further to gain additional insights into the architectural decisions that shaped this inspiring space.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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