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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofing Systems Creating Connected Urban Living

Authors:
Beixi Zhu, Shiyu Jin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofing Systems Creating Connected Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and green roofing systems, the design fosters community connectivity through thoughtfully arranged living spaces that prioritize both individuality and collective engagement in an urban residential context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features a central courtyard that promotes social interaction among residents.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and sustainability.
04
Includes a Canyon Corridor that connects various communal spaces.
05
Integrates green roofing systems to support biodiversity and energy efficiency.
The Melbourne Affordable Housing project represents a significant advancement in addressing urban housing challenges. Positioned within a vibrant neighborhood, this project utilizes a contemporary architectural approach to create a living environment that balances individual privacy and community interaction. The design incorporates various spatial arrangements, accommodating diverse housing needs while fostering a strong sense of community among residents.

The core of the project lies in its "Pixel Aggregation" strategy, where individual residential units come together to form a cohesive living experience. Each unit is designed with attention to both functionality and aesthetics, promoting efficient use of space while allowing for personal expression. By incorporating elements such as open communal areas and private living spaces, the project endeavors to create a harmonious urban habitat.

Unique Design Approaches and Internal Organization

One defining feature of the Melbourne Affordable Housing project is its focus on aggregation and connectivity. The architecture incorporates an outer loop that supports vertical living, allowing for fluid movement between public and private spaces. This thoughtful design creates a framework for social interaction while maintaining essential privacy for residents. The placement of communal amenities throughout the outer loop encourages diverse activities, reinforcing community ties.

Another notable aspect is the central courtyard, serving as a shared outdoor space that promotes gatherings and leisure activities. This area is flanked by residential units, allowing for natural surveillance and enhancing security. The incorporation of a Canyon Corridor further emphasizes the social aspect of the design, offering a distinct passage connecting different segments of the project.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The selection of materials in this project also distinguishes it from typical housing projects. The use of reinforced concrete provides structural integrity while allowing for creative architectural expressions. Glass panels are strategically integrated into the facade to maximize natural light, fostering an inviting atmosphere. Prefabricated sandwich panels are utilized for exterior cladding, offering insulation and efficient construction processes.

Sustainability is a key consideration, with features such as green roofing systems and community gardening initiatives embedded into the design. These elements encourage residents to engage with nature and promote environmental stewardship, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals in architecture.

The integration of diverse room typologies within the overall design enhances adaptability. Units range from one-bedroom apartments to two-bedroom homes, accommodating varying family sizes and lifestyles. This variety ensures that the project meets the needs of its residents, supporting a mixed community demographic.

Exploring More on the Architecture of This Project

This project emphasizes innovative architectural ideas that prioritize community interaction within a contemporary urban context. For detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, readers are encouraged to delve further into the project presentation. Understanding the intricacies of this housing solution can provide valuable perspectives on modern architectural practices and sustainable living within urban environments.
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Enter an open architecture
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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