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Charred Wooden Shingles and Light-Steel Frames in Versatile Urban Residences

Authors:
Chung-yuan Huang, Hsin-yu Huang, Cheng-yang Tsai
Charred Wooden Shingles and Light-Steel Frames in Versatile Urban Residences

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a light-steel frame, the residence redefines urban living through its adaptive design and sustainable materials, providing a flexible home that responds to environmental challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates a light-steel frame for structural flexibility and reduced weight.
03
Features an integrated water collection system for efficient resource management.
04
Employs permeable bricks to minimize stormwater runoff and flooding risks.
05
Arranges multiple courtyards to foster community interaction and natural ventilation.
The architectural project, "Resilient Habitat," represents a contemporary approach to residential design, focusing on adaptability and sustainability within the context of traditional Arab architecture. This project serves as a versatile living space that not only meets the functional needs of its inhabitants but also integrates into the surrounding environment, supporting ecological balance and resource conservation. The design is characterized by its thoughtful use of materials, layout, and technological integration, creating a space that is functional, efficient, and culturally resonant.

The core idea behind "Resilient Habitat" is to create a living environment that can adapt to changing circumstances, both socially and environmentally. The architecture emphasizes flexibility, allowing for variations in use and expansions as needed. This is particularly relevant in regions that experience significant climate variations, as the design responds to these conditions through innovative construction methods and systems.

Adaptability and Sustainability in Design

"Resilient Habitat" distinguishes itself through its strong focus on sustainability and adaptability. The project incorporates a light-steel-frame structure that minimizes weight while maximizing space efficiency. Additionally, the use of precast concrete planters allows for greenery integration, enhancing urban biodiversity while providing natural cooling.

Solar energy systems play a crucial role in the design, providing the necessary power for daily activities while reducing reliance on non-renewable sources. Moreover, the project incorporates a water-collecting surface that addresses water management challenges in arid climates, highlighting a thoughtful approach to resource conservation.

Further unique elements of this project include the integration of permeable bricks, which facilitate stormwater management, thus reducing flooding risks. The traditional Mashrabiyya pattern featured in the facade serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, allowing for privacy and airflow while reflecting cultural heritage.

Spatial Layout and Community Integration

The spatial organization of "Resilient Habitat" promotes a strong connection between private and communal areas. The design features courtyards that serve as central gathering spaces, enhancing community interaction while providing a degree of privacy for individual living quarters. This arrangement exemplifies a modern interpretation of traditional Arab homes, where external spaces play a vital role in social living.

In addition, the layout is designed to facilitate movement and interaction between different areas, ensuring that transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces are seamless. This fluidity encourages a lifestyle that embraces both personal reflection and communal engagement in outdoor environments, further promoting the project's goals of sustainability and adaptability.

The project introduces a new paradigm of residential architecture that prioritizes environmental sensitivity and social functionality. It engages with contemporary challenges facing urban living, offering insightful architectural ideas that can inform future developments.

For a deeper understanding of the innovative design approaches, explore the project's architectural plans, sections, and overall designs. Such insights will enhance your appreciation of the complex interplay between functionality, sustainability, and cultural resonance in this architectural solution.
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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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