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Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Create a Community Hub of Open Spaces

Authors:
Mallory Kerr, Andrea St-cyr
Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Create a Community Hub of Open Spaces

Project in-detail

Challenging conventional design, the clever use of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels creates an inviting community hub that fosters connection through its thoughtfully designed open spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a bent A-frame structure, allowing for a unique spatial experience.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetics but also for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction while maintaining structural integrity.
04
A green roof integrates vegetation to promote biodiversity and improve insulation.
05
Landscaped gardens are strategically designed to foster community engagement and connection with nature.
The architectural project under review represents a thoughtful integration of function, aesthetic, and context, engaging with its environment in a meaningful manner. The design aims not just to fulfill basic requirements but also to resonate with the users’ experiences, creating a lasting impact through its spatial organization and material choices.

At its core, the project serves the purpose of accommodating various activities, which could range from public gatherings to more intimate community interactions. The design approach hinges on flexibility, allowing spaces to be adapted for different uses over time. This notion of adaptability is not only practical but also highlights the foresight embedded in the architectural conception, acknowledging that the needs of a community can evolve.

Key elements of the project include the façade, which showcases a delicate balance between transparency and solidity. Large expanses of glass are strategically placed to invite natural light while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. This blurring of boundaries between the interior and exterior signifies a commitment to environmental responsiveness, suggesting that the design prioritizes both user comfort and ecological considerations.

In terms of materiality, the project employs a thoughtful palette that emphasizes durability as well as aesthetic appeal. The use of locally sourced materials not only supports regional economies but also aligns the project with sustainable practices. Concrete, timber, and glass work harmoniously to create a façade that is as functional as it is visually appealing. The thermal mass of concrete allows for energy efficiency, while timber adds warmth and character, fostering a sense of place. The incorporation of innovative glazing techniques further enhances thermal performance while maintaining an inviting atmosphere inside.

The internal configuration of spaces is carefully conceived to promote interaction and collaboration. Open-plan areas facilitate movement and communication, whereas strategically placed quiet zones provide opportunities for contemplation and privacy. This duality encourages community engagement and socialization while respecting individual needs. The circulation path is intuitively designed, guiding users through the space naturally and efficiently, which is crucial for the overall user experience.

Unique details abound throughout the design, from the way light filters through the structures to the integration of green spaces that enhance the project’s livability. Landscaping is an integral element here, with gardens that not only provide visual relief but also contribute to biodiversity. The inclusion of green roofs and walls emphasizes the project’s ecological aspirations and its commitment to integrating nature into urban settings.

Moreover, the attention to design details such as textured surfaces, varied ceiling heights, and the play of light inside the building serves to create a narrative that invites exploration and interaction. Each space tells a story, engaging users and instilling a sentiment of belonging and accessibility.

In reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design elements of this project, one gains a deeper understanding of how architectural ideas have been woven together to create a cohesive and functional environment. The innovative approaches, careful material selection, and user-focused details reflect a comprehensive understanding of contemporary architectural practices and the needs they address.

For those interested in exploring the nuanced elements of this design, including technical drawings and specific architectural features, further investigation into the project presentation is encouraged. This exploration can provide invaluable insights into the architectural process and the underlying philosophies that render this project a noteworthy endeavor in today’s architectural landscape.
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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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