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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Redefining Urban Community Spaces

Author:
Ho Sin Chang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Redefining Urban Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and green roofs blend seamlessly in a design that transforms urban spaces into vibrant community hubs focused on sustainability and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while enhancing aesthetic value.
02
Green roofs support local biodiversity and improve thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Integrates porous paving to facilitate stormwater management and reduce runoff.
05
Incorporates communal gardens designed for community engagement and food production.
The Urban Valley project is an architectural initiative located in the densely populated districts of Zhonghe and Yonghe in New Taipei City, Taiwan. This design represents a multifaceted approach to urban living, focusing on integrating green spaces within an urban context to address the challenges of population density and limited ecological environments. The project aims to create a sustainable urban habitat that promotes community interaction and environmental restoration.

The main function of the Urban Valley project is to provide a balanced living environment that encourages social engagement while enhancing the ecological qualities of the area. The design incorporates communal spaces, pedestrian pathways, and residential buildings that facilitate interaction among residents while providing essential services.

The project features a unique spatial organization characterized by flexible pathways that mimic the natural contours of a valley. This design approach allows for easy movement through the site while creating visually engaging vistas that connect different spaces within the project. The buildings are strategically positioned to vary in height, promoting natural air circulation and sunlight penetration, thereby maximizing the comfort of the inhabitants.

The materiality of the Urban Valley project plays a crucial role in its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural material, ensuring durability and resilience while the use of glass facades enhances transparency, connecting indoor spaces with the exterior. Green roofing systems are integrated to promote biodiversity and thermal regulation, while porous paving facilitates natural drainage, reducing urban runoff and enhancing sustainability.

A distinguishing feature of the Urban Valley project is its innovative integration of green structures throughout. Unlike typical urban developments, the project emphasizes ecological restoration through its landscaping, which incorporates native plant species and communal gardens. This unique aspect not only fosters biodiversity but also contributes to improved air quality and a more pleasant microclimate.

The Urban Valley initiative also incorporates elements that reflect local culture and address social needs. Seating areas and communal spaces are designed to foster interactions among residents, encouraging community engagement and participation in shared activities. This focus on social connection is a significant departure from conventional urban design approaches that often prioritize vehicular traffic and individual living spaces.

In summary, the Urban Valley project represents a responsive architectural solution to urban challenges in New Taipei City. Its thoughtful integration of natural elements, varied materials, and emphasis on community spaces sets it apart from conventional developments. To explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas further, readers are encouraged to delve into the detailed project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of this unique architectural endeavor.
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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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