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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define A New Model for Urban Affordable Housing

Authors:
Yixin Ren, Na Wang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define A New Model for Urban Affordable Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and verdant green roofs, this innovative urban development seamlessly blends sustainability with adaptive design to provide much-needed affordable housing in the heart of Paris.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal while minimizing maintenance.
02
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and creates dynamic interior spaces.
03
Incorporates green roofs that contribute to biodiversity and stormwater management in an urban setting.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for quick assembly and reduced environmental impact compared to conventional materials.
05
Includes communal gardens designed to foster community interaction and promote residents' involvement in sustainable practices.
The Bio-threshold Affordable Housing project represents a thoughtful exploration of sustainable urban living, situated in the densely populated area of Hauts-de-Seine in Paris. This architectural endeavor emphasizes the integration of nature within the urban fabric, utilizing the biological characteristics of the octopus as a conceptual anchor. The architecture not only serves as a living space for families but also promotes community connectivity and ecological sustainability.

At its core, the project addresses the pressing need for affordable housing within the context of urban Paris, where high demand often leads to overcrowding and a scarcity of suitable living arrangements for families. By focusing on adaptability, the design encourages varying household structures, accommodating both single occupants and larger families. This flexibility fosters a sense of belonging and encourages interaction, creating vibrant communities rather than isolated living environments.

The spatial configuration of the housing units is a defining feature of the design. Each unit is carefully orchestrated to prioritize both privacy and community, with strategic arrangements that allow for communal spaces while providing intimate settings for individual families. The layout includes a mix of basic and family rooms, designed to respond to the diversity of the residents' needs, reinforcing the idea that homes should adapt to the lifestyles of their occupants.

Materiality also plays a crucial role in the architecture of the Bio-threshold project. The selection of sustainable materials, such as prefabricated frameworks, solar panels, green roofs, and efficient insulation, showcases a deliberate emphasis on creating an environmentally friendly living space. By harnessing renewable energy and implementing extensive green systems, the project actively contributes to reducing its carbon footprint while enhancing the overall quality of urban life.

The unique design approach is evident in the integration of vertical gardens and urban farms within the housing units. These elements not only contribute to the residents' well-being by providing access to fresh produce but also encourage a deeper connection with nature. The incorporation of biophilic design principles serves to enhance the living experience, promoting mental health and fostering community bonds through shared gardening spaces.

Furthermore, the architectural design draws on the idea of creating ‘bio thresholds’—points of interaction between built structures and natural environments. This thoughtful engagement transforms traditional perceptions of housing, positioning it not merely as a shelter but as part of a larger ecological system. Such an approach encourages residents to participate actively in maintaining and preserving their environment, ultimately cultivating a strong sense of stewardship and responsibility toward both their homes and the surrounding community.

The overall aesthetic of the project is carefully considered, incorporating natural hues and textures that reflect the urban landscape while allowing for a calming presence within the busy city. The design embraces functionality without sacrificing beauty, ensuring that each architectural element contributes meaningfully to both practicality and visual appeal.

The Bio-threshold Affordable Housing project stands as an innovative response to the challenges of urban living. By harmonizing architectural design, sustainability, and community engagement, the project not only provides essential housing but also enhances the quality of life for its residents. For readers interested in deeper insights, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will reveal further how these ideas interweave to create a robust and thoughtful living environment. Engaging with the architectural concepts behind this project offers valuable perspectives on modern urban housing solutions and sustainable living practices.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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