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Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Skylights Defining a Community Hub

Authors:
Honglian Zhang, Wei Xu, Ya fei Wang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Large Skylights Defining a Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive skylights, the design creates a harmonious blend of natural light and sustainable materials, serving as a central community hub that fosters interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space while promoting natural ventilation.
04
Strategically positioned skylights maximize daylight penetration and create a connection to the outdoors.
05
Integrates green roofs to enhance biodiversity and provide natural insulation.
The architectural project under analysis features a modern design, characterized by its integration with the surrounding environment. The structure presents a carefully orchestrated response to both function and aesthetic, primarily serving as a communal hub within its urban context. This exploration of architectural coherence and functionality aims to foster social interaction while accommodating various activities.

The building's layout effectively distinguishes between public and private spaces, ensuring user comfort and functionality. Ground-level areas are designed as open, inviting spaces to encourage community engagement. These zones are complemented by functional elements such as seating areas, green spaces, and easy access points, promoting a cohesive flow throughout the site. The choice of materials, including glass, steel, and local stone, not only enhances the building's durability but also reflects the area's cultural and geographic identity.

The project distinguishes itself through its innovative approach to natural light and ventilation. The incorporation of large apertures and strategically placed skylights allows for abundant daylight, reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daytime. The seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces blurs the boundaries of the architecture, making nature an integral aspect of the user experience.

Sustainability is a critical component of the project’s design philosophy. The architecture incorporates renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. This commitment to sustainability is reflected in the overall design strategy, which emphasizes energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The integration of green roofs and vertical gardens serves to enhance biodiversity while providing natural insulation.

The architectural details, such as the simplified lines and contemporary finishes, underscore a minimalistic aesthetic that prioritizes functionality without compromising style. The careful selection of materials and finishes aligns with modern sensibilities, creating a harmonious visual language throughout the project. This deliberate design choice ensures that the building is not only visually appealing but also maintains a strong connection to its site.

For deeper insights into this architectural project, including architectural plans, sections, and design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. Through a detailed examination of the architectural ideas and innovative design approaches, one can appreciate the comprehensive vision that this project embodies.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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