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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Elevate Sustainable Housing in Urban Settings

Authors:
Juan carlos Medina pereyra, Diana marisol Narvaez berlanga, Maria jose Montero lopez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Elevate Sustainable Housing in Urban Settings

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and green roofs, this urban housing initiative not only prioritizes sustainability but also fosters community engagement through shared living spaces and multifunctional areas designed for diverse resident needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainable construction practices.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and views.
04
Includes multifunctional communal areas designed to foster resident interaction.
05
Utilizes green roofs to improve energy efficiency and support biodiversity.
The architectural project "Our Beacon" serves as a comprehensive response to the pressing need for affordable housing in urban spaces, particularly in densely populated areas such as Toronto, Canada. This initiative is designed to offer a sustainable solution to housing challenges while promoting a sense of community among residents. The project incorporates a thoughtful integration of public and private spaces, encouraging interaction and engagement among occupants.

At its core, "Our Beacon" represents a philosophical shift in how we view urban living. This project goes beyond merely providing shelter; it aims to create a vibrant community where diverse individuals can live, work, and interact. The architecture embodies the idea of collective experiences, fostering a supportive environment where residents can thrive both socially and economically. By bringing together various living arrangements and communal facilities, the design emphasizes inclusivity and resilience.

The project's design is characterized by two asymmetrically arranged towers that rise above a substantial podium level, strategically utilizing the vertical space while maintaining a human scale at the ground level. The podium serves as a multifunctional area, hosting essential community services alongside recreational facilities. Here, residents and visitors can find a range of spaces that include libraries, working pods, wellness gardens, and areas dedicated to the arts, all of which are conducive to creativity and productivity.

Each aspect of "Our Beacon" is carefully planned to enhance the overall experience of urban living. The living units vary from compact one-bedroom apartments to larger family dwellings, promoting a range of communal living arrangements from cohabitation to individual privacy. This mix encourages social connections while providing the necessary comfort for residents. The architectural approach focuses on maximizing natural light and views, utilizing large glass windows and open layouts that blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment.

Sustainability is another foundational element of the design. The project incorporates eco-friendly materials and technologies that support environmental stewardship and energy efficiency. Features such as green roofs, solar panels, and rainwater harvesting systems are implemented to highlight a commitment to sustainable living. This not only reduces the ecological footprint of the building but also educates and inspires residents to adopt similar practices.

An important aspect of the project is its emphasis on adaptability and community engagement. The shared spaces are designed to be multifunctional, hosting various activities that cater to the diverse needs of the community. Language centers, fitness studios, and art exhibition areas serve as venues where residents can gather, share skills, and foster connections. This focus on communal resources reinforces the concept of shared responsibility and collaboration, crucial in helping build resilient neighborhoods.

The architectural details of "Our Beacon" also contribute to its overall identity. A carefully curated material palette of sustainable wood, concrete, metal, and glass not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also ensures durability and functionality. The thoughtful selection of materials reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability while creating comforting and inviting spaces.

In terms of design approaches, "Our Beacon" leverages contemporary architectural themes while incorporating progressive ideas that reflect current societal values. The project challenges traditional housing models by integrating diverse living arrangements, communal facilities, and sustainable practices. It seeks to redefine the perception of urban living and presents itself as a model for future residential developments.

In summary, "Our Beacon" stands as a testament to the potential of thoughtful architecture to shape urban environments and foster community connections. By examining its architectural plans, drawings, and sections, one can gain deeper insights into the project’s design and underlying philosophy. This project invites exploration not only as a unique housing solution but also as a community-oriented initiative that embodies modern living ideologies. Encouraging readers to delve into the rich details and innovative architectural strategies further emphasizes the importance of integrated design in addressing contemporary urban challenges.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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