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Charred Wooden Shingles and Locally-Sourced Stone Create a Harmonious Urban Living Space

Author:
Yuchen Li
Charred Wooden Shingles and Locally-Sourced Stone Create a Harmonious Urban Living Space

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and locally-sourced stone, the design integrates environmental sensitivity with contemporary living, offering a balanced urban retreat that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a unique texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were sourced locally, reducing transportation impact and supporting regional industry.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems promote sustainability and reduce water consumption for the building.
05
Community gardens are strategically placed to encourage interaction and enhance urban biodiversity.
The architectural design project under review exemplifies a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context. Located in a dynamic urban setting, this project serves as a multifaceted environment that encapsulates the essence of modern living while respecting its surroundings. The overall design embodies a commitment to sustainability and community engagement, prioritizing both aesthetic appeal and practical functionality.

From the outset, the project presents a cohesive and harmonious design language that is immediately recognizable. The exterior façade incorporates a careful selection of materials, showcasing the use of locally sourced stone, glass, and steel. This choice not only emphasizes durability but also reflects the regional architecture, creating a dialogue between the structure and its environment. The stone offers a sense of permanence, grounding the project within its context, while the glass provides transparency and an invitation to the outside world, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The project is designed to accommodate a variety of functions, including residential units, communal spaces, and commercial areas. Each component is strategically placed to enhance usability and foster a sense of community among the inhabitants. The residential portions are configured to maximize natural light and ventilation, with spacious balconies that extend living spaces outdoors. This consideration for the human scale ensures that the environment remains inviting and accessible.

Unique design strategies are evident throughout the project, particularly in the way it addresses urban density. The architects utilized vertical space creatively, employing a mixed-use approach that encourages community interaction. Shared amenities, such as rooftop gardens and communal lounges, promote social engagement among residents and visitors alike. The design also features thoughtfully landscaped areas that provide green relief amid the urban fabric, contributing to both aesthetic beauty and environmental sustainability.

Attention to detail is prevalent in various aspects of the design. The integration of energy-efficient systems demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, with features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems seamlessly incorporated into the building's framework. This integration of green technologies not only reduces the ecological footprint but also represents a forward-thinking approach to urban development.

The architectural plans reveal a meticulous layout that emphasizes accessibility and circulation. Corridors and pathways are designed to facilitate movement, ensuring that spaces are not only functional but also user-friendly. Architectural sections reflect the careful consideration given to ceiling heights and spatial proportions, enhancing the overall experience of the occupants. The interplay between open and enclosed areas is handled with finesse, creating a dynamic flow that caters to diverse needs.

In summary, this architectural design project encapsulates a well-considered response to contemporary urban living, embracing both individual and communal needs. The thoughtful integration of materials, spatial organization, and sustainability practices sets a benchmark for future developments in similar contexts. For readers interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this project, an exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs will provide additional insights into the architectural ideas that shaped this compelling 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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