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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Shape Sustainable Urban Living in Rome

Authors:
Abby Brayton, Madeline Bestick, Mariam Were
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Shape Sustainable Urban Living in Rome

Project in-detail

Built with charred wooden shingles and complemented by green roofs, the design fosters a sustainable community environment that promotes interaction and connectivity in urban Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and fire resistance while creating a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used, allowing for faster construction and increased structural stability.
03
Sustainable features include extensive green roofs that promote biodiversity and improve urban insulation.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light intake while reducing energy consumption for heating and cooling.
05
Community gardens are integrated into the design, fostering local engagement and promoting urban agriculture.
The project, known as "CONVIVERE," is an architectural initiative in Rome, Italy, designed to enhance urban living by fostering community interaction and connectivity. This well-thought-out design represents a harmonious integration of residential, commercial, and public spaces to create a vibrant urban center that addresses the pressing needs of the local population.

At its core, the "CONVIVERE" project embodies the principle of communal living, promoting the idea of coexistence among diverse groups while ensuring that all aspects of urban life are accessible. The architecture aims to create spaces that encourage social engagement, offering numerous areas where residents and visitors can gather and interact in meaningful ways. This initiative is rooted in the understanding that urban environments should not only serve as places for living and working but also function as catalysts for social bonding.

The design integrates various functional components, each contributing to the overall objectives of the project. The residential sector consists of a blend of housing types, promoting affordability while accommodating different family sizes and demographics. Additionally, the incorporation of mixed-use structures enables residents to engage with commercial spaces conveniently located within walking distance, thereby enriching the community's economic fabric.

Open spaces play a critical role in this architectural design. Parks and plazas are thoughtfully placed throughout the development, creating inviting social hubs. These areas are designed to facilitate events, markets, and casual gatherings, reinforcing the importance of public life in urban settings. Such outdoor spaces are complemented by amenities like seating areas, community gardens, and playgrounds, enhancing both the aesthetic appeal and functional utility of the environment.

The unique design elements extend to the material choices, which reflect both durability and a connection to the cultural context of Rome. The use of brick for paving and facades provides a familiar texture while ensuring longevity, while concrete supports the structural integrity of the project. Glass elements are strategically placed to maximize natural light exposure, fostering a sense of openness, while wooden features offer warmth and comfort to both public and private spaces. Steel is utilized in innovative ways, providing contemporary detailing that complements the overall design ethos.

Accessibility is a fundamental aspect of the "CONVIVERE" project, with transportation routes carefully planned to ensure ease of movement throughout the area. Pedestrian pathways are designed to foster walking and cycling, promoting healthier lifestyle choices while minimizing reliance on vehicles. The incorporation of well-marked public transport options further facilitates movement, making it easy for residents to connect with nearby amenities and the broader city.

Sustainability is woven into the fabric of the project through thoughtful environmental integration. The landscape design utilizes native plants, which thrive in the local climate and require minimal irrigation, effectively promoting biodiversity. Features such as green roofs and vertical gardens enhance the buildings' environmental performance, reducing their ecological footprint while providing additional communal spaces.

Each of these elements contributes to a cohesive architectural vision that prioritizes community and sustainability. The thoughtful balance of public, private, and shared spaces, alongside the diverse range of materials and innovative design concepts, establishes "CONVIVERE" as a forward-looking development that respects Rome's rich architectural heritage while addressing contemporary urban challenges.

Those interested in the architectural details of "CONVIVERE" are encouraged to explore the project's presentation further, which includes detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs. This exploration will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas and the specific methodologies employed in the project, offering a comprehensive view of this important urban endeavor.
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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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