Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Defining a Sustainable Living Community

Author:
Dora Figueroa
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Defining a Sustainable Living Community

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and green roofs, the design creates a unique blend of ecological harmony and modern living, serving as a vibrant self-sufficient community that prioritizes sustainability and accessibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainable construction practices.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation throughout living spaces.
04
Integrates green roofs to support biodiversity and improve insulation.
05
Designed with elevated walkways that preserve existing landscaping while enhancing accessibility.
The project under analysis represents an exemplary model of contemporary urban living, situated in Melbourne, Australia. This architectural endeavor encapsulates a vision for a self-sufficient community designed to meet the diverse needs of its inhabitants while promoting sustainability and social interaction. The design seamlessly integrates residential, commercial, and communal spaces, emphasizing accessibility to essential services within a walkable environment.

One of the defining characteristics of this project is its commitment to creating an inclusive living space. By implementing a range of housing options, the design caters to various income levels, ensuring that affordability remains a central focus. The community layout encourages interaction among residents, positioning parks, recreational zones, and shared facilities at the heart of the design. Thus, the architecture fosters a sense of belonging and community engagement among its inhabitants.

The architectural design utilizes a modular approach to housing, featuring vertical units that efficiently maximize land use without compromising on green space. This strategy not only preserves existing ecosystems but also bolsters the project’s aesthetic appeal. The vertical configuration accommodates an array of residential units, positioned above commercial spaces, creating a mixed-use environment that optimizes daily living. Such a design is indicative of modern urban planning tactics aimed at reducing dependency on vehicles, as residents can easily access shops, services, and leisure activities within minutes.

Material selection plays a vital role in this architectural project, reflecting both sustainability and a commitment to high-quality construction. Concrete is extensively used for structural integrity, while expansive glass facades introduce natural light and offer visual connections to the surrounding landscape. The use of wood in communal spaces imparts an organic quality, establishing a warm atmosphere conducive to social interaction. Furthermore, the integration of green roof systems is not only an aesthetic choice but also serves practical purposes, including improving insulation and contributing to biodiversity.

The incorporation of innovative design features enhances the overall functionality of the community. Elevated walkways are strategically designed to navigate through different levels of the project while maintaining ecological integrity underneath. This layout facilitates ease of movement for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging an active lifestyle aligned with contemporary urban ideals. Moreover, centralized parks serve as multifunctional areas where residents can gather for leisure, recreation, and community events, fostering a vibrant public realm.

Sustainability is a core principle that informs every aspect of this design. The commitment to achieving net-zero energy is realized through the incorporation of solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and efficient energy systems, which collectively reduce the community's carbon footprint. The architectural strategy not only addresses immediate environmental concerns but also instills a sense of responsibility in its residents regarding their surroundings.

Smart technology is woven into the fabric of the community, enhancing security, energy management, and connectivity among residents. This integration reflects a forward-thinking approach, positioning the community as a modern urban living environment that prioritizes efficiency and convenience.

In summary, this architectural design transcends traditional notions of urban development by focusing on a holistic approach to living. The integration of diverse housing options, community-centric spaces, and sustainable practices makes it a relevant model for future urban planning. Readers are encouraged to further explore the project's presentation to gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and overall design strategies employed. This exploration will provide a more nuanced understanding of the architectural ideas that shape this exemplary self-sufficient community in Melbourne.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy