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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Shape a Serpentine Community Space

Author:
Andrew Glicksberg
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Shape a Serpentine Community Space

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and local stone, this community center creates a contemplative environment enhanced by a serpentine layout, serving as a versatile space for collective gatherings and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone to enhance environmental integration.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a central oculus that creates dynamic light patterns throughout the day.
04
Employs a serpentine layout to guide user experience and promote meditation.
05
Includes a biodigester to support sustainable waste management practices.
The Labyrinth Community Center serves as a multifaceted architectural project designed to foster community engagement, education, and spiritual reflection. Integrating local materials and sustainable design practices, this facility reflects a deep understanding of its surroundings and the needs of its users. The primary function of the community center is to provide a versatile space that accommodates a wide range of activities, from workshops and seminars to quiet contemplation.

The architectural layout incorporates a central open area designed to host various events, allowing flexible seating arrangements to adapt to different group sizes and purposes. The design emphasizes connectivity with the natural environment through the careful placement of windows and orientation, enhancing the user experience by maximizing natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.

Spatial Organization and Unique Design Features

The unique aspect of the Labyrinth Community Center lies in its innovative approach to spatial organization, drawing on the metaphor of a labyrinth to guide users through their experience. The central feature, an oculus, enables sunlight to flood the space, crafting a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that changes throughout the day. This element is not merely aesthetic; it enhances the meditative quality of the environment.

The design incorporates a Zen Window, strategically positioned to frame specific natural vistas, encouraging users to pause and engage with the outdoor surroundings. This thoughtful integration of natural elements instills a sense of tranquility, making the center not just a place for activities but a space for introspection.

Sustainability and Material Selection

A crucial element of the project is its commitment to sustainability, evidenced by the choice of locally sourced stone and wood. The use of local materials reduces environmental impact, while the building's thermal mass enhances energy efficiency by regulating indoor temperatures. The design also includes a biodigester, emphasizing nutrient recycling and waste reduction while promoting sustainable practices within the community.

Overall, the Labyrinth Community Center represents a holistic architectural solution. Its design not only fulfills practical requirements but also creates a nurturing environment for personal development and collective interaction. For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans and sections that bring this project to life, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation, which showcases the architectural designs and innovative ideas that define this unique endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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