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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Development

Author:
Adelina Tahiri Nela
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Mixed-Use Development

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and green roofs, the development promotes environmental sensitivity while providing a vibrant community space that integrates residential and commercial functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a sophisticated bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity.
02
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic.
03
Features extensive green roofs to promote biodiversity and manage rainwater effectively.
04
Integrates community spaces to foster interaction and social cohesion among residents.
05
Incorporates passive solar strategies to optimize energy efficiency throughout the development.
The Prizren Urban Residence is a comprehensive mixed-use development located in Prizren, Kosovo, designed to integrate contemporary urban living with the region's natural landscape. The project encompasses 14.2 hectares and strives to create a harmonious relationship between built environments and the site's topography, which features hills and rivers. The architectural design prioritizes sustainability, community engagement, and cultural resonance, establishing a framework for modern living that respects historical context.

Sustainable Design Approaches

One of the defining characteristics of the Prizren Urban Residence is its emphasis on sustainability. The project incorporates green roofs and vertical gardens, enhancing biodiversity while improving overall air quality. The integration of energy-efficient technologies, such as passive solar design and rainwater harvesting systems, supports environmentally responsible living. The use of local materials like concrete, wood, glass, and metal cladding not only reinforces durability and aesthetics but also minimizes the environmental impact by reducing transportation costs.

Community-Centric Layout

The layout of the Prizren Urban Residence facilitates a balance between public and private spaces. Pedestrian-friendly pathways are strategically organized to promote social interaction among residents. Ground-level commercial spaces contribute to the urban fabric and encourage economic activity within the community. The arrangement of buildings and communal gardens fosters interaction, enhancing the overall quality of life for inhabitants. This design approach is a significant departure from typical urban projects that may prioritize solitary or inward-focused designs, thus reinforcing a vibrant community atmosphere.

Integration with Cultural Identity

This project uniquely celebrates the cultural heritage of Prizren through architectural forms that draw on local traditions. The geometric design elements resonate with the natural contours of the landscape, reflecting the cultural context while providing contemporary functionality. By incorporating vernacular architectural features, the Prizren Urban Residence reinforces a sense of place that is often lost in modern developments. The architecture serves not only as a living space but also as a cultural statement, supporting community identity and continuity.

Explore the project further to gain insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate this integration of sustainability, community, and cultural identity. Reviewing these elements will provide a deeper understanding of how the Prizren Urban Residence addresses the challenges of contemporary urban living within its unique context.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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