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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Contemporary Affordable Housing in Urban Paris

Authors:
Alexander Zaytsev, Nikita Zaytsev, Yulia Olofinskaya
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Contemporary Affordable Housing in Urban Paris

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a green roof, the design offers a modern solution to urban living challenges in Paris by creating affordable housing that promotes community interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates green roofs that function as communal gardens for residents.
03
Features a modular design that allows for adaptable apartment configurations.
04
Employs natural ventilation techniques to reduce energy consumption.
05
Integrates planting systems into the facade to support urban biodiversity.
The architectural project under consideration focuses on the development of affordable housing in the urban context of Paris. This initiative represents a systematic response to the pressing need for economical living solutions within densely populated cities. The design prioritizes not just the provision of housing but also champions a community-oriented approach that fosters social interaction and inclusivity among residents.

At its core, the project embodies a gallery block design that is both functional and adaptable. Each unit is configured to accommodate varying household types, from singles to families, thereby addressing the diverse demographic landscape of Paris. The architectural plans detail a coherent organization of space that promotes efficient living while allowing for individual preferences through multiple apartment configurations. The layout encourages a sense of community by design, as residents can easily interact in shared spaces and corridors, enhancing the overall living experience.

The material selection plays an essential role in the architectural design, emphasizing sustainability and resilience. Concrete forms the structural backbone of the project, providing stability and the capacity to shape multi-story buildings in the urban fabric. Large glass panels, integrated into the design, serve to maximize natural light penetration and create connections between indoor and outdoor environments. This intentional inclusion of glass not only reduces energy consumption by harnessing natural illumination but also visually expands the interiors, making them feel more spacious and inviting.

A notable aspect of the project is its commitment to sustainability. The integration of green roofs addresses urban heat, promotes biodiversity, and offers residents access to communal gardens. This relationship between nature and living spaces enhances the well-being of inhabitants while contributing to the urban ecosystem. Natural ventilation strategies are thoughtfully employed to reduce reliance on mechanical systems, again aligning with overarching sustainability goals. This project exemplifies a holistic approach to urban housing, where the design is not solely about shelter but about creating a thriving community that interacts with the surroundings in a meaningful manner.

In discussing the unique design approaches, the project stands out for its emphasis on flexibility. The adaptable room configurations cater to various lifestyles and shifting needs over time, allowing residents to reconfigure spaces as necessary. This foresight makes the residences not just places to live, but dynamic environments that can grow and change with their occupants. The emphasis on shared infrastructure, such as communal amenities and rotary parking solutions, reinforces the notion of communal living while maximizing the efficient use of space, which is particularly crucial in an urban setting like Paris.

The architectural sections and designs provide a detailed visual narrative on how the space is utilized and organized. Each element serves the dual purpose of aesthetic appeal and functional use, ensuring that the residences are not just well-designed but also practical for the daily lives of occupants. The layout encourages the blending of social and private spheres, making it easier for residents to establish connections while maintaining personal space.

Overall, this architectural project embodies a thoughtful and purposeful design philosophy that addresses contemporary urban challenges. It provides not only a model for affordable housing but also a framework for community interaction and sustainable living. For those interested in exploring this project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available that showcase the innovative ideas and functional characteristics at play. Engaging with these elements will deepen your understanding of the architectural solutions proposed, underscoring the project's relevance in today’s urban landscape.
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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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