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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Community Living in Paris

Author:
Hoyeon Hwang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Community Living in Paris

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive green roofs, this sustainable residential development enhances urban living in Paris while fostering community interaction through thoughtfully designed communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Features extensive green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve thermal performance.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for quick construction and sustainability.
04
Includes communal gardens designed for resident engagement and social interaction.
05
Adapts a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and reduce material waste.
The "Cover-Facade" project presents a thoughtful architectural solution to urban housing demands in Paris. Strategically located at the intersection of Rue de Charonne and Rue Jean Baptiste Pigalle, this project integrates modern residential design with historical context. It addresses the pressing need for affordable housing while promoting community interaction, thereby creating a functional living environment suitable for diverse demographics.

The project consists of a mix of low-rise and higher structures designed to ensure compliance with the historically established urban regulations. By utilizing this vertical differentiation, the design contributes to a sense of scale in harmony with its surroundings while facilitating an urban fabric that encourages social connections among residents.

Design Integration with Urban Context

One of the notable aspects of the "Cover-Facade" project is its commitment to creating communal spaces that enhance social engagement. The layout features clusters of residential units organized around central communal areas, fostering interaction among residents while ensuring privacy. Ground-floor facilities include community-oriented spaces such as shops, daycare, and multipurpose rooms, effectively extending residential living into vibrant community hubs.

The design further emphasizes the integration of nature within an urban environment. Green roofs, landscaped terraces, and communal gardens have been strategically incorporated throughout the project. This commitment to greenery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also supports local biodiversity and provides residents with outdoor spaces for recreation and relaxation.

Sustainable Material Choices

The architectural design utilizes a carefully selected palette of materials that emphasize sustainability without compromising functionality. Key materials include concrete for structural integrity, glass to maximize natural light, and wood for warmth and comfort in interior spaces. Metal accents provide a contemporary edge while maintaining structural efficiency. The incorporation of green roof systems reflects a strategic approach to environmental stewardship, improving thermal performance and enriching the ecological landscape.

The emphasis on flexible housing solutions is another unique feature of this project. Various unit sizes and configurations accommodate different family structures and living arrangements, addressing the diverse needs of urban residents. This adaptability is crucial in combating the housing crisis, providing both temporary and permanent living situations in a compact urban setting.

The "Cover-Facade" project exemplifies an integrated approach to architectural design focused on functionality, community, and sustainability. By combining innovative housing solutions with an emphasis on social environments, it offers a viable model for future urban developments. For more technical information and insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the presentation of this project in greater detail.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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