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Charred Wooden Shingles and Interconnected Spaces in Flexible Urban Housing

Authors:
Yichen Zhai, Daniel Wen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Interconnected Spaces in Flexible Urban Housing

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop flexible modular units that promote social interaction, while carefully planned green spaces enhance the communal environment of this urban housing solution.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance while enhancing aesthetic texture.
02
Flexible modular units allow personalized configurations for diverse resident needs.
03
Integrated green spaces support biodiversity and encourage outdoor community engagement.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure structural integrity with reduced carbon footprint.
05
Bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and enhances natural light penetration.
"The Living Street" is an architectural project that redefines urban residential living by focusing on community interaction and adaptability. The project aims to serve diverse environments in China, accommodating various urban contexts through its flexible design. The primary concept revolves around creating a street that is not just a thoroughfare but a vibrant communal space that fosters social connections.

This project features modular residential units closely integrated with public amenities, including green spaces, shops, and communal areas. The design encourages pedestrian movement and interaction, transforming the street into a place of engagement rather than merely a transit corridor. The careful orchestration of building heights, open spaces, and interconnected pathways fosters a sense of community while addressing the urban landscape's complexities.

Adaptability is a core principle in the design of "The Living Street." The residential units can be configured in different arrangements, allowing for a personalized living experience that meets the residents' needs. This flexibility is central to the project's ability to respond to various demographic and cultural circumstances, making it suitable for different urban settings. The emphasis on ecological integration, with abundant green areas, contributes to the well-being of residents and the surrounding ecosystem.

Unique Design Approach to Community Living

One of the standout features of "The Living Street" is its focus on blending residential living with communal activities. The design fosters social interaction by incorporating semi-private inner streets that connect various residential units. This strategy encourages spontaneous interactions among residents, promoting a sense of belonging within the community.

The architectural layout includes shared gardens and recreational spaces that enhance connectivity while providing residents with opportunities to engage in outdoor activities. These elements are designed to support social cohesion and improve the quality of life in urban settings, distinguishing "The Living Street" from conventional housing projects that often prioritize individual living over community dynamics.

Integration of Sustainable Materials

Sustainability is a significant aspect of "The Living Street," with a thoughtful selection of materials contributing to the project's environmental ethos. The design employs concrete for structural integrity, while glass façades maximize natural light and create visual connections with the surroundings. Wood is used in various elements, adding warmth and texture to public spaces, while metal structures provide durability and modern aesthetics.

This careful choice of materials aligns with the project's core philosophy of adaptability and ecological responsibility. By integrating native plant species into its landscapes, "The Living Street" enhances biodiversity and supports local ecosystems, further solidifying its role as a model for sustainable urban living.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas, sections, and plans that underpin "The Living Street," readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Doing so will provide further insights into the innovative approaches that characterize this architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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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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