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Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Concrete in a Sustainable Community Hub

Author:
Alex Renard
Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Concrete in a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and high-performance concrete, the design establishes a sustainable community hub that harmonizes private and communal spaces while prioritizing environmental considerations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and aesthetics while minimizing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and promotes energy efficiency.
04
Integrated green roofs support biodiversity and reduce stormwater runoff.
05
Modular construction methods streamline assembly and reduce environmental impact.

The project at hand presents a contemporary architectural design that seamlessly integrates functional utility with aesthetic considerations. Located in an urban environment, this architectural endeavor serves multiple purposes, catering to both residential and communal needs. The design emphasizes sustainability, innovative use of materials, and a focus on enhancing the user experience through thoughtful spatial organization.

The project's core function is to provide a harmonious living space while promoting community interaction. The architectural layout incorporates open spaces that encourage social gatherings, alongside private areas for individual relaxation. This duality fosters a strong sense of belonging, addressing the need for community-oriented design in today's urban settings.

Key elements of the project include the incorporation of green spaces, natural light optimization, and sustainable practices. The landscape design plays a vital role, utilizing native plant species to minimize maintenance and enhance biodiversity. The building's facade features a combination of strategically placed glazing and solid surfaces, allowing for ample natural light while ensuring energy efficiency.

Innovative design approaches distinguish this project from others in the field. The use of modular construction techniques streamlines the building process, reducing waste and improving efficiency. Furthermore, the integration of smart technology within the building supports energy management and enhances the overall comfort of residents. These unique aspects reflect a forward-thinking mindset, placing the project at the forefront of contemporary architectural discourse.

The material palette selected for the project further contributes to its distinctive character. The primary materials include high-performance concrete, glass, wood, and metal. High-performance concrete provides durability and thermal efficiency, while glass facilitates light penetration and visual connectivity with the surroundings. The choice of wood adds warmth and texture, further enriching the sensory experience of the interiors. Metal accents introduce a modern touch, harmonizing with the overall design ethos.

Architectural plans illustrate the meticulous consideration of spatial arrangement and user flow throughout the building. Architectural sections reveal the three-dimensional organization of spaces, highlighting the interplay between private and communal areas. Additionally, architectural designs emphasize streamlined forms that resonate with contemporary architectural trends, while unique architectural ideas amplify the project's distinct identity.

This project stands as a testament to thoughtful design and modern architectural principles. Its unique integration of community-focused elements with sustainable practices showcases the possibilities of contemporary architecture in addressing urban challenges. For a comprehensive understanding of this architectural design, including architectural plans, sections, and further insights into the unique architectural ideas presented, exploring the project presentation is highly encouraged.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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