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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Courtyards in a Modular Healthcare Community

Authors:
Agata Anna Gawlak, Agnieszka Oktawia Ptak-wojciechowska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Courtyards in a Modular Healthcare Community

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and designed around accessible green courtyards, the development seamlessly integrates modular housing with essential healthcare services for a vibrant community living experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates extensive green courtyards designed for community interaction.
03
Features modular units that allow flexible configurations for diverse living needs.
04
Integrates healthcare services directly within the residential design for convenience.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and sustainability.

### Overview

Located in Barcelona, Spain, the multifaceted residential initiative responds to the evolving needs of a diverse urban population, with a particular focus on senior citizens, environmental sustainability, and the integration of modern healthcare technologies. The design emphasizes the creation of inclusive living environments that prioritize community engagement, health, and well-being, contributing positively to the urban landscape.

### Spatial Configuration and User-Centric Design

The architectural layout features modular housing units that can function independently or be grouped to accommodate various family sizes and social dynamics. Central courtyards and landscaped areas serve as communal spaces for social interaction and recreational activities, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. Private living spaces are designed for personal retreat while maintaining a connection to shared amenities. The incorporation of integrated healthcare facilities ensures that residents have convenient access to essential medical services, particularly beneficial for the aging population.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices are integral to both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while glass elements enhance natural light and energy efficiency. Wood finishes offer warmth within living spaces, and a lightweight metal framework supports flexible pavilion structures. Sustainable energy solutions are prioritized, with solar panels integrated into the roof design, alongside rainwater harvesting systems and green roofs, which further promote ecological health. The adaptability of materials and design allows for future modifications in response to changing needs or technological advancements.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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