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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Community Spaces With Sustainable Design

Authors:
Rakel Susanna Aurora Päivinen, Polina Rogova
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Community Spaces With Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Blending charred wooden shingles with a green roof, the design creates a harmonious atmosphere that fosters community interaction while prioritizing sustainability and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and weather resistance while achieving a modern aesthetic.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural integrity and sustainability in construction.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and allows for expansive windows to welcome natural light.
04
Integrates a green roof planted with native species to promote biodiversity and manage rainwater effectively.
05
Emphasizes community engagement through flexible, multifunctional spaces designed for gatherings and events.
The architectural project under analysis exemplifies a thoughtful integration of contemporary design principles with functional considerations, aiming to create a versatile space that serves both aesthetic and practical needs within its geographical context. This design demonstrates a clear understanding of the site and its surroundings, resulting in a composition that resonates with the existing landscape while introducing innovative design solutions.

At its core, the project represents a response to the evolving needs of a modern community, offering spaces that foster connectivity, creativity, and sustainability. The architecture prioritizes well-defined areas for both communal engagement and private reflection, distinguishing between public and private zones while ensuring easy accessibility throughout. This balanced approach reflects an understanding that architecture significantly influences social interaction and enhances the user experience.

The exterior facade showcases a harmonious blend of materials, including concrete, glass, and steel, which work together to form a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. The use of raw concrete provides a sturdy foundation and conveys a sense of permanence, while large glass panels invite natural light into the interiors, diminishing the barriers between the inside and the outside. This transparency promotes a sense of openness and connection to the surrounding environment, a critical aspect of contemporary architectural design.

One of the defining features of this project is its focus on sustainability. The architectural design incorporates energy-efficient systems and materials that reduce the ecological footprint, aligning with modern environmental standards. Green roofs and strategic landscaping not only enhance the building’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to thermal insulation and manage rainwater effectively. The choice of local materials further reinforces a commitment to sustainability while supporting the regional economy, creating a structure that is not only contextually appropriate but also environmentally responsible.

Interior spaces are meticulously designed to serve a variety of functions, accommodating both individual and collaborative activities. Open floor plans promote flexibility, allowing for reconfiguration as needed to adapt to different uses over time. Thoughtful details, such as integrated storage solutions and user-centric furniture designs, enhance the functionality of these spaces, making them more versatile and inviting.

A unique aspect of this project lies in its incorporation of local cultural elements, which inform the overall design philosophy. The incorporation of local craftsmanship and traditional methods into contemporary forms creates a dialogue between past and present, enriching the experience for the users and reinforcing the building's connection to its geographical identity. This approach not only honors local heritage but also fosters a sense of pride among the community members who engage with the space.

As the design unfolds, one can observe the careful consideration given to circulation and movement within the project's layout. Pathways are designed to guide users naturally through the space, encouraging exploration and interaction while providing a seamless flow between different areas. This thoughtful circulation design ensures that users do not feel disoriented, highlighting the architect’s commitment to user experience.

Throughout the project, attention to detail is paramount, with high-quality finishes that enhance the overall aesthetic without overwhelming the underlying design intent. The balance between texture, color, and form creates an engaging environment that invites users to reflect and engage with their surroundings.

In conclusion, this architectural project serves as a testament to the potential of modern design to respond thoughtfully to the needs of both individuals and the community at large. It combines innovative materials and sustainable practices while paying homage to local cultural influences. For anyone interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, or broader design ideas, exploring the project presentation could provide further insights into the intricate thought processes that underpin this noteworthy design. Engaging with these elements will reveal the full richness of the project's design language and its implications for future architectural practices.
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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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