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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Christopher ayumu Nakahara, Kai wen Yeo, Kan Tong
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Define Sustainable Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and extensive green roofs, the design creates a sustainable urban living environment that promotes community engagement and efficiency through shared spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while adding texture to the façade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for increased interior volume and unique spatial experiences.
04
Extensive green roofs support biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.
05
Modular units offer adaptability for diverse living arrangements and future redesigns.

The architectural design project under analysis focuses on a modern interpretation of communal living spaces, integrating residential units with shared amenities, within an urban setting. The design emphasizes connectivity and sustainability, reflecting contemporary lifestyles while addressing environmental concerns. Located in a bustling metropolitan area, the project serves as a model for efficient living through thoughtful spatial organization and innovative design solutions.

The project comprises a series of interconnected buildings, designed to maximize natural light and airflow. Each unit features open floor plans, allowing for adaptable spaces that can cater to various inhabitants. The exterior showcases a harmonious blend of materials, including locally sourced brick, glass, and steel, contributing to a cohesive yet distinct urban aesthetic. Large windows punctuate the façade, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and creating a visual dialogue between the interior and exterior environments.

One notable aspect of this design is the incorporation of green roofs and terraces, which serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. These features enhance energy efficiency, promote biodiversity, and provide residents with accessible outdoor spaces. The project also integrates rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and resource management.

The design prioritizes community engagement, with shared facilities such as co-working spaces, communal gardens, and recreational areas. These amenities foster a sense of belonging among residents, encouraging social interaction and collaboration. The layout encourages walkability, with pedestrian pathways and bicycle lanes that promote sustainable transportation options.

Another distinctive feature of the project is its adaptability for future demands. Flexible units can be easily modified to accommodate changing needs, reflecting the ebb and flow of urban life. This foresight in design not only enhances the longevity of the project but also positions it as a future-ready solution for urban housing challenges.

The architectural plans detail the strategic allocation of spaces, ensuring efficient circulation and accessibility throughout the development. Architectural sections illustrate the interplay of volumes and materials, providing insight into the spatial hierarchy and structural integrity of the buildings.

Overall, this project represents a significant step toward rethinking urban living through a balanced approach to architecture that embraces sustainability, community, and adaptability. Readers interested in gaining deeper insights into this innovative design should explore the detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs to fully appreciate the thoughtful integration of these elements into the built environment.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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