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Charred Wooden Shingles and Locally-Sourced Brick Create Engaging Mixed-Use Spaces

Authors:
Aditi Upen Shah, Adam George Blatner
Charred Wooden Shingles and Locally-Sourced Brick Create Engaging Mixed-Use Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally-sourced brick, the design integrates sustainable materials and communal gardens to create a vibrant mixed-use space that fosters community interaction and versatility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural performance and sustainability.
03
Includes integrated communal gardens designed for biodiversity and urban agriculture.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and airflow throughout the spaces.
05
Offers flexible multifunctional areas that adapt to various community activities and events.
The architectural project under analysis showcases a harmonious blend of modern design principles and functional living spaces. The building serves as a mixed-use facility, catering to both residential and communal needs within a vibrant urban context. Its primary function is to provide a sustainable environment that fosters community engagement while meeting the requirements of contemporary living. The design emphasizes adaptability, allowing spaces to be easily transformed to accommodate various activities and interactions among residents.

At first glance, one can notice the thoughtful massing of the architectural volumes, which are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and ventilation. The overall form is characterized by a series of interlocking structures that create a dynamic profile against the skyline. This approach not only enhances visual interest but also facilitates the integration of green spaces that are essential for urban environments. Landscaped terraces and communal gardens are seamlessly woven into the design, promoting a connection to nature that is often lost in urban settings.

The materiality of the project plays a crucial role in its design narrative. A selection of sustainable materials has been made, including locally sourced brick, timber, and glass, which together establish a warm and inviting aesthetic. The brick façade features varying textures and colors, creating depth and rhythm across the building’s exterior. This choice of material not only addresses sustainability but also respects the architectural vernacular of the surrounding neighborhood, creating a dialogue between the old and the new.

Complementing the brickwork, large expanses of glass provide transparency, allowing for visual connections between the interior spaces and the bustling city outside. These glazed areas are designed to reduce energy consumption through the incorporation of low-emissivity coatings, contributing to the project's overall sustainability goals. This commitment to energy efficiency is further reflected in the use of green roofs and solar panels, ensuring that the building minimizes its carbon footprint while promoting ecological practices.

Internally, the design prioritizes open layouts that encourage social interaction among residents. Thoughtful spatial planning allows for the seamless flow of movement between private and communal areas. Features such as multifunctional rooms and flexible workspaces align with the increasingly fluid definitions of home and work in today’s society. Spaces are intentionally designed to be adaptable, capable of serving different functions throughout the day, echoing the project’s commitment to versatility and responsiveness to user needs.

The inclusion of communal areas, such as a library, a fitness center, and shared kitchens, reinforces the vision of the project as a community hub. These spaces are designed to foster collaboration and socialization among residents, bridging the gap between private living and public engagement. Consideration has also been given to accessibility, ensuring that all areas are reachable for individuals of varying mobility.

Throughout the project, unique design approaches are palpable, particularly in the attention to detail. Elements like custom lighting fixture designs, integrated seating areas in the landscape, and the use of color to define spaces signify a deep understanding of user experience. Each aspect of the design has been curated to create an environment that is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and conducive to well-being.

In summary, the architectural design project embodies a modern response to urban living, focusing on sustainability, community, and adaptability. Its strategic use of materials, innovative design solutions, and thoughtful spatial organization reflect a comprehensive understanding of contemporary architectural principles. Those interested in exploring the nuances of this project are encouraged to delve into the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas to gain a deeper understanding of its intricate details and overall vision.
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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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