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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Sustainable Community Development

Author:
Arseny Boronenkov
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in a Sustainable Community Development

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive green roofs, this sustainable community development redefines urban living by offering diverse housing options that prioritize environmental integration and social connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to minimize carbon footprint and promote sustainable building practices.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the living spaces.
04
Includes extensive green roofs that function as communal areas and improve biodiversity.
05
Offers diverse unit types to accommodate various family structures and encourage a sense of community.
The project at 256-B Foundry Ave represents a forward-thinking approach to addressing the demand for affordable housing. Situated within an urban context characterized by rising housing costs and increasing population density, this architectural endeavor seeks not only to provide living spaces but also to foster community relationships and enhance the livability of the area. The design integrates various elements aimed at promoting collaboration and social interactions among residents, making it a significant contribution to the contemporary housing landscape.

Functionally, the project is designed to accommodate approximately 1,080 individuals, offering a mix of unit types that cater to diverse demographics, from singles to families. The arrangement of residential cells within a grid formation facilitates an intuitive flow of movement while enhancing the opportunities for neighborly interactions. Each living unit is paired thoughtfully with communal areas that serve as hubs for social engagement, creating environments where residents can connect and collaborate. The design thoughtfully balances privacy with community accessibility, fostering a sense of belonging.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in how residential and public spaces are integrated. The incorporation of public areas such as gardens, co-working spaces, and recreational facilities allows for a vibrant community atmosphere, encouraging residents to actively participate in neighborhood life. The use of stairs and bay windows not only enhances the visual richness of the architecture but also contributes to natural ventilation and lighting, creating comfortable and inviting interiors.

The architectural design leverages a carefully selected palette of materials to reflect its ethos. Concrete forms the backbone of the structure, providing robustness, while steel components ensure flexibility and adaptability. Extensive use of glass in facades serves to connect indoor spaces with the surrounding environment, enabling residents to feel more in tune with nature. Additionally, the sustainability of the project is underscored by features such as green roofs, which serve both aesthetic and ecological functions, promoting biodiversity and reducing heat absorption in urban environments.

Overall, the project embodies a comprehensive vision for urban living, combining affordability with social functionality. The thoughtful arrangement of space encourages a sense of community while also emphasizing sustainability through eco-friendly materials and designs. The integration of mixed-use areas supports diverse activities and fosters local economic growth.

For readers interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide more detailed insights into the ideas and considerations that drove this development. The project not only meets present housing needs but also sets an example of how architecture can create functional, inclusive, and thriving communities.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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