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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Urban Multi-Family Living

Author:
Nathira Haja Mohideen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Enhance Urban Multi-Family Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles create a visually captivating façade while a lush green roof system enhances urban biodiversity, all within a thoughtfully designed multi-family living space that prioritizes community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates a green roof that supports local biodiversity and improves energy efficiency.
02
The exterior features charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal through natural weathering.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels were used for rapid construction and structural integrity.
04
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal light penetration and spatial versatility.
05
Communal spaces are thoughtfully integrated to foster resident interaction and a sense of community.
This architectural project presents a contemporary take on urban living, designed to enhance the interaction between residents and their environment. Nestled in an urban area, the design emphasizes both functionality and aesthetic appeal, providing a balanced solution to the challenges of modern city living. The project represents a conscientious effort to blend architectural innovation with a commitment to sustainability while fostering community engagement.

The primary function of the building is to serve as a residential complex, designed to accommodate a diverse group of inhabitants. It features a variety of unit types, catering to different family sizes and lifestyles, while promoting a sense of belonging among residents. The layout encourages social interaction through shared spaces such as communal gardens, rooftop terraces, and recreational areas that support both active and passive leisure activities.

Details within the architectural design reflect a thorough consideration of materiality and craftsmanship. The use of reinforced concrete offers structural resilience, paired with large expanses of glass that invite natural light into the interiors and create a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This choice not only enhances the living experience but also provides energy efficiency, reducing the dependency on artificial lighting. The integration of natural wood elements, such as oak and cedar, adds warmth to the aesthetic, creating inviting environments that contrast with the solidity of concrete and glass.

Distinctively, the project incorporates a green roof system, which serves a dual purpose. It provides additional insulation for the building while promoting urban biodiversity. This feature not only contributes to ecological sustainability but also allows residents to enjoy green spaces in an urban context, fostering an appreciation for nature amidst the concrete landscape. The architectural design principles applied in this project emphasize environmental responsibility, seamlessly integrating sustainable practices into everyday living.

Moreover, the layout is designed to promote flexibility and adaptability. It features multifunctional spaces that allow residents to personalize their living environments according to their needs. Open-concept floor plans facilitate the flow of movement while accommodating various arrangements for furniture and activities. Balconies and terraces extend the living space outdoors, encouraging social gatherings and interactions among neighbors.

A unique aspect of this project is its focus on community. Through thoughtful design, areas such as communal lawns, walking paths, and shared recreational amenities are interwoven, creating opportunities for residents to connect. These communal spaces not only stimulate social ties but also contribute to a shared identity among residents, reinforcing the sense of community that urban environments often lack.

This architectural endeavor represents a significant step toward redefining urban living, emphasizing a balanced interaction with nature, sustainability, and community. Each element of the design—from the chosen materials to the layout and communal features—works together to create a harmonious environment that meets the needs of modern inhabitants. For those interested in exploring the nuances of this project further, it is recommended to review the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that provide deeper insights into the innovative solutions implemented throughout the project. Engaging with these details can enrich one’s understanding of the thought processes behind this compelling architectural approach.
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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
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