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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazing Create Connected Communal Living Spaces

Authors:
Valentina Fracca, Francesca Bonfà
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazing Create Connected Communal Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop expansive glazing, enhancing natural light while promoting outdoor connectivity in a compact living community designed for shared experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are used for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Large glazing areas create seamless transitions between interior and exterior spaces.
03
Community-centered design fosters social interaction among residents.
04
Modular construction methods promote efficient assembly and sustainability.
05
Landscaped pathways enhance accessibility and promote outdoor engagement.
The project under examination, referred to as TAVI, is an innovative architectural design that integrates residential and communal living spaces. This project focuses on creating a cohesive community through a series of tiny homes strategically positioned around a central communal building. The design emphasizes interaction among residents while offering intimate private living quarters. The layout promotes a balance between communal engagement and individual privacy, essential for fostering a sense of belonging and cooperation within the community.

Community Integration and Functionality

At the core of TAVI’s design is the community-centric arrangement that centers around the communal building. This structure serves as the hub for resident activities, fostering social interactions and shared experiences. The communal space is equipped with facilities for dining and gathering, making it an essential part of daily life. Surrounding this central unit are the tiny homes, each designed to provide essential living amenities while maintaining a minimal footprint. This layout encourages movement and accessibility, directing residents through pathways that are lined with landscaping elements, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

Sustainable Design and Materiality

TAVI utilizes a selection of materials that align with contemporary sustainability principles. The predominant use of concrete provides structural stability, while wood elements contribute to the warmth and human scale of the tiny homes. Large glazing areas in the communal building allow for ample natural light, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces and promoting connection to the surrounding environment. The design incorporates stone in both the façade and landscaping, reinforcing the integration with nature. These choices not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also reflect a commitment to sustainability, reducing environmental impact and promoting energy efficiency within the development.

Innovative Architectural Solutions

What sets TAVI apart from similar projects is its operational approach to spatial design and community dynamics. The tiny home model advocated by this project reflects growing trends toward minimalistic living and efficient use of space. By incorporating shared communal facilities, TAVI strengthens social bonds among residents, encouraging a collaborative lifestyle. The design also features transitional spaces that facilitate easy movement between inside and outside areas, which enhances user experience. Furthermore, the project’s implementation of accessible pathways prioritizes pedestrian usage, ensuring safety and encouraging outdoor engagement.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans and designs, explore the project presentation to discover detailed architectural sections and further insights into the innovative architectural ideas that shape this community-focused initiative.
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Enter an open architecture
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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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