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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Redefine Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Rafael Gomez duran, Felipe Barragán, Sebastian Hernandez, Laura Pineda guacaneme
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Redefine Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and extensive green roofs, this urban housing solution reimagines traditional mews living through sustainable materials and flexible spaces designed for vibrant community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features extensive green roofs that promote biodiversity and improve stormwater management.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable structural integrity and reduced carbon footprint.
04
Designed with flexible layouts that can adapt to various family sizes and lifestyle needs.
05
Includes elevated pathways that enhance pedestrian circulation and community engagement throughout the development.
The architectural project known as MEWs emerges as a thoughtful reinvention of traditional mews housing within London, aiming to respond to contemporary urban living demands. This design signifies a shift towards community-centric living spaces while incorporating modern sustainability practices. The project effectively merges historical context with innovative architectural solutions, creating a comfortable and functional environment for city residents.

MEWs is designed to meet the needs of a diverse population, providing flexible housing options suitable for varying family sizes and lifestyles. Such adaptability is especially pertinent in today’s rapidly changing world, where residents increasingly seek homes that offer both privacy and communal engagement. Each housing unit ranges in size, ensuring that individuals, couples, and families can find a suitable living arrangement that meets their unique requirements.

The architectural layout consists of a linear arrangement of housing units, reflecting the historic mews style while embracing a contemporary aesthetic. This arrangement fosters a sense of community by facilitating interaction among residents; the design encourages movement and connection through shared outdoor spaces and walkways. The integration of these communal areas, including playgrounds and gardens, underlines the project’s commitment to promoting social interaction and outdoor activities, which have become increasingly valuable in urban settings.

A notable aspect of the design is the elevated pathway, which serves not only as an access point but also as a vital connector throughout the development. By elevating pedestrian circulation, the design minimizes congestion while enhancing the overall experience of the residents. The pathway is designed to invite exploration and engagement, underscoring the importance of accessibility in urban living.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project's success. The use of glass, engineered hardwood, and steel not only contributes to an aesthetically pleasing environment but also prioritizes sustainability and durability. The selection of these materials reflects a careful consideration of the long-term impact on both the residents and the environment. For instance, extensive use of glass throughout the façades fosters a sense of openness and connection to the outdoor environment, while engineered hardwood is chosen for its warmth and structural integrity.

MEWs further incorporates energy-efficient insulation materials, ensuring that the design meets modern standards for environmental responsibility. The inclusion of green roof systems not only enhances biodiversity but also contributes to effective stormwater management, aligning the project with broader ecological objectives. These design strategies highlight the project’s commitment to sustainable architecture, making it a responsible choice for urban living.

In terms of unique design approaches, MEWs stands out through its seamless blend of private and communal spaces. By carefully balancing these elements, the design ensures that residents can enjoy both personal refuge and community engagement. This consideration of human experiences within architectural spaces is a key highlight of the project. The flexibility in unit designs allows residents to customize their apartments according to personal preferences, reinforcing the notion of home as a space that reflects individual identity.

The overall architectural idea conveyed through MEWs resonates with a forward-thinking approach to housing in urban environments. It recognizes the historical significance of mews while adapting to contemporary needs, resulting in a cohesive and functional living space that enhances the quality of life for its residents. The emphasis on community, sustainability, and adaptability makes this project a relevant model for future architectural endeavors.

For those interested in understanding the intricacies of the design, including architectural plans, sections, and specific architectural details, a thorough exploration of the project presentation will provide deeper insights into its innovative approaches and thoughtful execution. Engaging with these elements will offer a comprehensive view of how MEWs represents a significant development in contemporary housing solutions.
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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
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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