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Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Glass Intertwine in a Community-Centric Space

Authors:
Carla Caldani, Mauro Fiori, Francesca Giugliano
Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Glass Intertwine in a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive high-performance glass, the design creates a harmonious dialogue between nature and community, ultimately serving as a vibrant hub for social interaction and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote efficient construction and sustainability.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and space efficiency.
04
Includes integrated green walls that improve indoor air quality and promote biophilia.
05
Design emphasizes adaptable communal spaces to foster collaboration and social interaction.
The architectural project in question presents a thoughtful integration of form and function, manifesting a design that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. Situated in a vibrant urban context, the structure aims to foster a connection between its inhabitants and the surrounding environment, emphasizing the importance of community engagement within its architectural narrative. The design encapsulates the principles of sustainability, accessibility, and innovation, demonstrating a commitment to creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also beneficial to their users and the broader ecosystem.

At the core of the project is its unique architectural concept, which incorporates biophilic design principles. This approach signifies a deliberate effort to reconnect people with nature within urban landscapes. The building’s façade, composed primarily of high-performance glass and natural stone, enhances the natural light infiltration while providing an inviting transparency to the exterior. The natural stone elements echo the local geological conditions, affirming the project’s contextual sensitivity. By harmonizing the materials with the environment, the design establishes a seamless dialogue between the architecture and its site.

Internally, the spatial organization reflects a careful consideration of function and flow. Open plan layouts allow for flexibility, adapting to various uses over time while encouraging social interaction among users. The incorporation of communal spaces, such as shared lounges and collaborative work areas, reinforces the project’s commitment to community-oriented design. Each area is intentionally crafted to promote engagement, fostering a sense of belonging among occupants. Additionally, strategically placed green walls and indoor gardens contribute to the overall health and well-being of users, supporting the project’s objective of enhancing quality of life.

The roof of the building features a green terrace, providing a recreational area that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This outdoor space not only serves as an amenity for building occupants but also aids in stormwater management through sustainable landscaping practices. The use of native plant species reduces maintenance needs while creating habitats for local wildlife, further anchoring the project within its ecological context.

Material selection within this architectural project is crucial, as it reflects both the aesthetic aspirations and the functional requirements. The versatile range of materials employed includes high-performance glass, regional stone, steel, sustainable wood, and recycled composite materials. These choices not only contribute to the visual identity of the building but are also aligned with the principles of sustainability. The careful balancing of durability and beauty demonstrates how materiality plays a foundational role in achieving the overarching design vision.

The project also integrates advanced sustainable technologies aimed at reducing energy consumption. Photovoltaic panels are discreetly integrated into the roof design, contributing to the building’s energy needs while maintaining the overall sleek architectural style. Additionally, high-efficiency HVAC systems and smart building technologies optimize energy use, exemplifying a forward-thinking approach to modern architectural challenges.

Throughout the design process, attention to detail remains paramount. The architectural elements include custom details such as integrated lighting within the façade and thoughtfully designed transitions between indoor and outdoor environments. These elements demonstrate a careful consideration of human experience, making functionality predictable while elevating the aesthetic qualities of the space.

In summary, this architectural design project stands as a thoughtful exemplar of contemporary architecture, blending practicality with an awareness of its setting. The project not only meets the functional demands of its occupants but also fosters an enriching interaction with the surrounding community and environment. For those looking to delve deeper into the intricacies of this design, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, and rich architectural ideas is highly encouraged to gain a comprehensive understanding of this innovative 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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