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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Create A Community Hub Emphasizing Natural Light

Authors:
Isabella Nieling, Tobias Blachwitz, Melina Blachwitz, Hanna Al-dineh
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Create A Community Hub Emphasizing Natural Light

Project in-detail

With its unique charred wooden shingles and a meticulously designed green roof that enhances energy efficiency, the building serves as a vibrant community hub focused on fostering collaboration and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates a green roof that enhances insulation and supports biodiversity in the urban environment.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetics but also for their fire-resistant properties and longevity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support while minimizing the carbon footprint of construction.
04
The bent A-frame design creates an inviting structure that maximizes natural light penetration throughout the interior spaces.
05
Sustainable technologies, such as rainwater harvesting and solar panels, are integrated to reduce the building’s overall energy consumption.
The architectural project under analysis demonstrates a commitment to modern design principles combined with functional efficiency. Nestled in a thoughtfully selected geographical location, the building stands as a testament to innovative architecture while engaging with the local environment and community. The project’s primary function is to serve [insert specific purpose, e.g., a community hub, educational facility, or residential complex], facilitating various activities and interactions among its users in a manner that enhances their experience.

Upon entering the building, visitors are greeted by an open layout that emphasizes accessibility and fluidity. The spatial arrangement is designed to promote connectivity, with clearly defined zones that cater to different functions without creating barriers. This thoughtful organization ensures that movement throughout the space is intuitive, allowing users to navigate comfortably from one area to another. Key focal points within the building include an expansive central atrium, which functions as a communal gathering space, encouraging collaboration and engagement among users. The use of large glass panels brings natural light into the core of the structure, enhancing the overall ambiance and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

The architectural design incorporates a variety of materials that contribute to both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Concrete forms the foundational structure, chosen for its durability and adaptability, while the use of low-emissivity glass reduces energy consumption through improved insulation and passive solar heating. The integration of galvanized steel within the design provides necessary structural support while also introducing an industrial aesthetic that is both contemporary and timeless. The use of sustainable wood, such as bamboo and recycled oak, in interior finishes introduces warmth, enhancing user comfort and creating a welcoming environment.

A particularly unique aspect of the project is its approach to environmental sustainability. The design features elements such as green roofs, which not only provide insulation but also facilitate biodiversity and manage stormwater runoff. Additionally, integrated solar panels leverage renewable energy sources to further minimize the building's ecological footprint. These design strategies reflect a growing awareness of environmental responsibility within the field of architecture, aiming to reduce reliance on nonrenewable resources and promote sustainable living.

Cultural resonance is another significant element of the project. The design team has skillfully incorporated local architectural motifs and materials that pay homage to the region's history. This thoughtful selection creates a sense of belonging for the local community, fostering pride in the new structure. The choice to utilize locally sourced materials also supports the regional economy and reduces transportation emissions, aligning with the overarching goal of sustainability embedded within the project.

The aesthetics of the project are characterized by clean lines and a harmonious balance between open and enclosed spaces. Large, strategically placed windows provide visual connections to the surrounding landscape, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments. This design choice not only enhances the building’s relationship with nature but also contributes to the wellbeing of its occupants by providing views and fresh air.

Furthermore, the incorporation of smart building technologies enhances user experience and operational efficiency. By integrating systems for lighting, heating, and ventilation that can be controlled remotely, the design responds proactively to the needs of its users, improving comfort while supporting energy efficiency.

Overall, this architectural project exemplifies a harmonious integration of function, sustainability, and local culture. Its design prioritizes user experience while remaining conscious of environmental impacts. Anyone interested in exploring the intricate details of this project, including the architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, is encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation to gain a richer understanding of its achievements and contributions to contemporary architecture. The synthesis of these elements not only marks this project as a noteworthy example within its field but also invites further dialogue on the potential of thoughtful design in shaping our built environment.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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