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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Redefining Communal Living Spaces

Authors:
Dominika Poluk, KAMIL STAŃCZYK
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Redefining Communal Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive green roofs create a distinct façade that blends seamlessly into the landscape, fostering a supportive environment for community living and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a natural fire-resistant feature while enhancing aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength and reduce the carbon footprint of the building.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while minimizing material waste during construction.
04
Integrated green roofs support biodiversity and improve rainwater management on-site.
05
The layout encourages social interaction through communal gathering areas and shared gardens.
Vale do Sorriso is an architectural project that integrates residential living with therapeutic and communal activities in a natural setting. Positioned in a landscape characterized by topographical variations, this development emphasizes sustainability and social interaction. The project is designed with a clear focus on the well-being of its residents, providing spaces that facilitate both privacy and community engagement.

The primary function of this architecture is to serve as a residential facility that caters to the needs of its occupants through the integration of living spaces, health care areas, and communal facilities. The design reflects a thoughtful approach to layout and organization, allowing residents to navigate comfortably between private apartments and shared amenities. The project features multiple levels connected by a circulation system that includes lifts and wide corridors, ensuring accessibility.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the project’s design. The use of concrete provides structural stability and thermal performance, while large glass panes allow for ample natural light, enhancing the connection to the surrounding environment. Wooden elements in balconies and interior finishes contribute to a warm ambiance, promoting comfort. Green roof systems are implemented not only for aesthetic enhancement but also for improved insulation and biodiversity.

Integration of Nature and Community Life
One of the unique aspects of Vale do Sorriso is its seamless integration of natural elements into the architectural design. Terraced gardens surrounding the building not only enrich the visual experience but also serve as spaces for social activities and relaxation. The project utilizes native vegetation to promote ecological balance and reduce water consumption through sustainable landscaping practices. This design choice significantly sets Vale do Sorriso apart from typical residential projects, as it emphasizes a harmonious relationship between built and natural environments.

Sustainable Design Strategies
The architectural design incorporates a range of sustainable strategies that address energy efficiency and environmental impact. Natural ventilation is achieved through strategically placed openings and terraces, minimizing reliance on mechanical systems. Rainwater harvesting mechanisms are included to manage runoff and irrigate gardens, showcasing responsible water management. The building's orientation and massing are optimized to maximize daylight while minimizing heat gain, further enhancing its sustainability.

For a comprehensive understanding of Vale do Sorriso, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Reviewing architectural plans, sections, and other design documents will provide deeper insights into the layout, materiality, and innovative strategies employed in this thoughtful project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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