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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in Modular Community Housing

Authors:
Emanuele Calabrò, Serena Casamento Barbitta, Andrea Cippitelli
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs in Modular Community Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and equipped with green roofs, the design integrates modular units that promote community living within an environmentally sustainable framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, optimizing strength while reducing environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, offering unique aesthetic and structural advantages.
04
Includes green roofs to improve insulation and promote biodiversity within the urban landscape.
05
Modular units allow for flexible configurations, catering to diverse family needs and lifestyles.
The architectural design project analyzed here addresses the growing need for adaptable, sustainable housing in China. Situated within various geographical contexts, the project integrates traditional Chinese architectural elements with contemporary design principles, aiming to create living spaces that are functional, environmentally conscious, and culturally relevant. The design emphasizes the balance between urban and rural living, making it particularly significant in a rapidly urbanizing landscape.

Innovative Adaptation of Traditional Forms

This project uniquely incorporates elements of traditional Chinese architecture, specifically the Siheyuan, known for its central courtyards and harmonious arrangement of spaces. The design features adaptive modules that allow for various configurations, enabling flexibility based on family size and lifestyle. This modular approach is not only practical but encourages communal living by clustering units around shared green spaces. Courtyards serve as vital components, promoting social interaction and fostering community ties among residents.

Sustainable Building Practices and Materials

Sustainability is a critical focus of this project. The integration of green roofs improves insulation while reducing urban heat effects. The use of local materials, such as brick and wood, connects the structures to their cultural context while supporting local economies. Additionally, photovoltaic panels provide a renewable energy source, reducing reliance on traditional energy infrastructures. Rainwater harvesting systems are also incorporated to enhance water efficiency, demonstrating a commitment to ecological principles.

The architectural design utilizes an optimal orientation strategy for buildings, maximizing natural light use and passive heating. This approach minimizes energy consumption and enhances thermal comfort across different climatic zones within China. All design decisions reflect a pragmatic response to both environmental conditions and the cultural landscape.

This architectural project represents a thoughtful synthesis of traditional values, modern design, and sustainability. For those interested in exploring the project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available. These elements provide greater insight into the innovative architectural ideas that underpin this comprehensive design initiative.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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