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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Tiles Form A Sustainable Living Community

Author:
Ronald Janssen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Tiles Form A Sustainable Living Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local tiles, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and community living, facilitating social interaction in a carefully crafted multi-story residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates localized tiles to support regional craftsmanship and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that optimize structural performance and sustainability.
04
Incorporates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve energy efficiency.
05
Design prioritizes natural light through strategically placed glass elements for enhanced well-being.
The Zenith project is an architectural development designed to address current societal and environmental needs through a blend of community-oriented and sustainable design principles. The project features a multi-story residential structure formed to encourage interaction among residents while prioritizing personal privacy. Its architectural layout promotes both individual living experiences and communal engagement, securing versatility for various lifestyles.

The building encompasses meticulously designed space configurations that include communal dining areas, therapy rooms, and social spaces on the ground floor, while upper floors house private living units with integrated balconies. This arrangement allows for unobstructed views and enhances natural light penetration, contributing to resident well-being.

Sustainable material choices define the project’s architectural integrity. The use of local wood for structural components fosters a warm aesthetic, while durable concrete ensures stability. Local tiles add character to the interiors, promoting local craftsmanship and minimizing environmental impact. Large glass surfaces facilitate natural light and fluid connections between indoor and outdoor environments. Green roofs are implemented to enhance insulation while supporting local flora, demonstrating a commitment to ecological balance.

Community-Centric Design Approach
Zenith’s design reflects a thorough understanding of community dynamics and the necessities of modern living. Its focus on social connectivity is evident in the layout of shared spaces, encouraging interactions among residents. This architectural strategy addresses psychological aspects of living, emphasizing the importance of community ties in enhancing quality of life.

The incorporation of outdoor gardens and participatory landscaping adds unique value to the project, allowing residents to engage with nature and each other. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and stewardship among residents, reinforcing community bonds.

Sustainability and Functionality
The project incorporates advanced sustainability features, such as rainwater harvesting systems and geothermal energy utilization. These systems reduce energy dependency and promote resource conservation, aligning with environmentally responsible design practices. Natural ventilation mechanisms are designed to optimize air circulation, decreasing reliance on mechanical systems.

The flexibility of the interiors accommodates various activities, from quiet solitude to community gatherings, making the space adaptable to evolving resident needs. The architects have prioritized a holistic view of living, where spaces function effectively while maintaining aesthetic value.

Those interested in the architectural integrity and innovative solutions of the Zenith project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into its comprehensive design philosophy and unique approaches. The project stands as a model for contemporary residential architecture, illustrating how thoughtful design can enhance community living while addressing sustainability challenges.
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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
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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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