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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Enabling Versatile Community Engagement Spaces

Authors:
Amro Kabbara, Souad Ismail, Ahmed Kamel Elrefaei Elrefaei, Jihad Lotfi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Enabling Versatile Community Engagement Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive green roofs create a seamlessly integrated community hub that fosters collaboration and engagement within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity while creating visually dynamic spaces.
02
Incorporates living walls to improve air quality and provide a unique aesthetic element within urban surroundings.
03
Utilizes sustainably sourced cross-laminated timber panels, contributing to the project's eco-friendly approach.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems, promoting conservation and responsible water usage in the facility.
05
Offers flexible interior layouts that easily adapt to a variety of community functions and gatherings.
The architectural project in question presents a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context, illustrating a nuanced approach to contemporary design that respects its environment while pushing boundaries in practicality and aesthetics. Located in an urban setting, the project embodies an initiative to create a space that not only serves its intended purpose but also contributes positively to the surrounding community.

At its core, the project functions as a multi-purpose hub, fostering collaboration and interaction among users. This function is evident in the open-plan layout that encourages fluid movement and accessibility. The design thoughtfully addresses the varying needs of its users by incorporating flexible spaces that can easily adapt to different activities, whether they be collective gatherings, workshops, or quiet study sessions. This versatility enhances the overall user experience, creating an inviting atmosphere that naturally draws people in.

Analyzing the structure, one can observe the careful selection of materials which play a pivotal role in defining the project's character. The use of locally sourced brick not only ties the building to its geographical roots but also adds a tactile quality that resonates with warmth and durability. Complemented by large expanses of glass, the architecture fosters an effective dialogue between the interior and exterior spaces. This relationship is significant, as the glazing allows natural light to permeate the interior, creating an uplifting environment that emphasizes well-being and productivity.

One of the standout design elements is the integration of green roofs and living walls, which serve both aesthetic and environmental purposes. These features not only enhance the building's visual appeal but also contribute to sustainability by improving air quality and promoting biodiversity. The project cleverly incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, demonstrating a commitment to environmental stewardship. Such design decisions reflect a broader architectural idea that prioritizes not only human experience but also the ecological impact of built environments.

The circulation within the building is another noteworthy aspect. The design plan includes spacious corridors that are lined with artwork and local crafts, serving to enrich the cultural narrative of the area. This emphasis on local craftsmanship not only affirms the region’s identity but also engages the community through art, encouraging local artists and providing them with a platform to showcase their work. The use of inclusivity in the design enables individuals of all abilities to navigate the space with ease and independence, highlighting a significant commitment to accessibility.

Additionally, the architectural sections of the building reveal a sophisticated strategy of layering and spacing that enhances privacy while maintaining openness. Strategic partitioning allows for a sense of individual space without compromising the communal feeling encouraged by the open layout. This thoughtful organization contributes to a harmonious balance of personal and shared experiences within the building, reflecting a modern understanding of social dynamics in architectural design.

In summary, the architectural project stands out for its careful blend of functionality, sustainability, and community engagement. It showcases how modern design can effectively address practical needs while also making a thoughtful statement about place and identity. The careful material selection and the attention to environmental impact are commendable features that enhance the overall architectural integrity of the project. Interested readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and overarching architectural ideas that shaped this impressive endeavor.
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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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