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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Form Sustainable Urban Living Environment

Authors:
Ming-wei Syu, Wei-han Chen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Form Sustainable Urban Living Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and green roofs, this residential development not only embraces sustainability but also offers a flexible living environment designed to foster community interaction amidst the urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve insulation.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for rapid construction and sustainability.
04
Includes adaptable living units designed for varying family sizes and structures.
05
Integrates communal activity spaces to foster social interaction among residents.
The architectural project known as "The Green Zone" emerges as a thoughtful response to the growing demand for affordable housing in urban environments, specifically tailored for Toronto, Canada. This project represents more than just an architectural solution; it embodies a commitment to fostering community living while addressing economic constraints. The design takes a comprehensive approach to housing, balancing the needs of diverse demographics, including singles, couples, and families, while ensuring that the developments encourage social interaction and integration into the larger urban fabric.

At its core, "The Green Zone" serves a functional purpose by providing a variety of living arrangements that cater to the differing sizes and needs of households. The project consists of 90 residential units designed to accommodate single individuals, duos without children, and traditional families. A significant aspect of the design is the inclusion of communal activity spaces that encourage residents to engage with one another. These spaces are thoughtfully integrated into the layout, promoting a sense of belonging and fostering relationships among neighbors.

One of the most notable features of the design is the tiered terracing approach. By utilizing a multi-layered structure that simulates a hillside, the architect harnesses the benefits of natural light and ventilation. This not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the housing but also creates lush outdoor areas that invite residents to enjoy green space directly outside their doors. The terraces are designed to provide a seamless transition from indoor living areas to the outdoors, emphasizing the relationship between the built environment and nature. This aspect of the design is particularly relevant in urban settings, where green space is often limited.

Materiality is another critical component of "The Green Zone." The project thoughtfully employs a combination of sustainable materials, ensuring both durability and minimal environmental impact. While the specific materials used in the project include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, glass for maximizing light, wood for warmth, and metal cladding for added resilience, the emphasis lies in their application to create an eco-friendly living environment. Potential use of green roofs adds an additional layer of sustainability, enabling better insulation and promoting local biodiversity.

The design also considers energy efficiency through features such as passive solar heating and advanced ventilation systems, which collectively contribute to reduced energy consumption. This commitment to sustainability is emblematic of responsible architectural practices in modern design.

In addressing the unique design approaches taken in "The Green Zone," the project benefits from its adaptability. The framework is crafted to respond to various geographical contexts, making it a suitable model for both urban and suburban areas. This versatility signifies a forward-thinking strategy in the architectural design process, allowing for tailored solutions that can meet specific community needs while remaining economically feasible.

Another important aspect of the project is its visual design language. The arrangement of the units is meticulously planned to reduce visual obstruction, ensuring that residents have visual access to their surroundings while maintaining privacy. The innovative use of landscaping complements the architectural form, enhancing the overall atmosphere and promoting a tranquil living environment.

Those interested in exploring "The Green Zone" are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, and details that reveal the careful thought embedded in each aspect of the design. These elements offer profound insights into the successful integration of community-oriented housing and environmental stewardship, demonstrating how modern architecture can effectively address pressing societal challenges. Engaging with the architectural designs and ideas presented will unveil the comprehensive vision behind this impactful project.
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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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