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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Create a Sustainable Community Space in Spain

Authors:
Manuela King, Byron Kuth
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roof Create a Sustainable Community Space in Spain

Project in-detail

With its green roof and charred wooden shingles, this innovative structure enhances its environment while serving as a vibrant community hub in Spain.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a green roof that supports local biodiversity and enhances insulation.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for both aesthetic appeal and increased durability against weather elements.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide exceptional structural integrity while promoting sustainable material usage.
04
A bent A-frame design creates expansive interior spaces while minimizing the building's environmental footprint.
05
Open-plan layouts encourage community interaction and adaptability for various functions within the space.
The project under consideration exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture, emphasizing a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its surrounding landscape. Nestled within its geographical location, the design serves a multifaceted function, catering to both private and communal needs. The architecture unfolds in layers, revealing spaces that encourage interaction and connectivity among the inhabitants while maintaining a sense of introspection and tranquility.

The concept driving this architectural endeavor revolves around sustainability and context. The architects have made a conscious effort to integrate local materials that resonate with the regional identity, using a combination of concrete, timber, and glass. Each material has been carefully selected not only for its aesthetic qualities but also for its thermal efficiency and durability, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible design. The extensive use of large windows ensures that natural light permeates the interiors, creating inviting spaces that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.

One noteworthy aspect of this project is its roof design, which incorporates green elements that promote biodiversity and reduce urban heat. This innovative approach not only enhances the building’s aesthetic appeal but also serves a functional purpose, providing insulation and managing rainwater. Each slope and angle of the roof is meticulously crafted to maximize both its environmental benefits and its visual impact, characterizing the project as one that harmonizes beauty with responsibility.

The layout of the structure plays an essential role in its overall functionality. Open-plan areas promote fluid movement throughout the space, encouraging a sense of community and collaboration among those who occupy it. Private zones are thoughtfully positioned to provide refuge from bustling common areas, highlighting the architects’ understanding of human behavior and comfort. The flow of the building allows for natural circulation patterns, with corridors that serve as conduits while simultaneously offering opportunities for social interaction.

The entryway serves as a focal point, marked by an impressive facade that seamlessly integrates with the landscape. The design includes a welcoming transition space that invites visitors into the heart of the project. The interplay of textures, such as smooth concrete against the warmth of timber, creates a tactile experience that speaks to the senses. As one navigates through the space, the attention to detail becomes evident in every corner, from the bespoke fixtures to the carefully curated artwork displayed along the walls.

Unique design strategies have been employed throughout the project to address specific challenges posed by its environment. For instance, the strategic placement of overhangs provides shade while reducing solar gain, enhancing the comfort of the interior spaces. This thoughtful response to climactic conditions further underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and livability.

Landscaping also plays a significant role in this architectural design, with outdoor areas crafted to create a seamless extension of the indoor spaces. Pathways wind through the grounds, designed to encourage exploration and engagement with the vicinity. Native plant species have been prioritized to foster local biodiversity, further embedding the project within its ecological context.

As the analysis reveals, this architectural project is a nuanced tapestry of design elements carefully woven together to create a functional yet aesthetically pleasing environment. Its unique approach to material selection, ecological considerations, and spatial dynamics presents a model of contemporary architecture that balances innovation with tradition.

For those interested in delving deeper into the project, exploring the accompanying architectural plans, sections, and designs can provide rich insights into the thought processes and design ideas that underpin this remarkable undertaking. Each element has been meticulously crafted to reflect a commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement, forming a cohesive narrative that invites further exploration.
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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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