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Charred Wooden Shingles and Micro Housing That Foster Community Connection

Authors:
Daniel Rosengren, Marjorie Yeo, Lina Blomqvist, Karola Schaefermeier
Charred Wooden Shingles and Micro Housing That Foster Community Connection

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal, this microhousing solution redefines communal living by merging sustainable materials with shared dining spaces to cultivate meaningful connections among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and unique aesthetic.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Designed with flexible communal spaces that adapt to various social functions and activities.
04
Integrates urban gardens to encourage local food production and biodiversity.
05
Utilizes an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and space efficiency.
The project "Dine with Your Neighbour" explores a novel approach to urban living, integrating communal experiences into architectural design. This project embodies a response to the increasing isolation often felt in contemporary urban environments, especially in densely populated areas. It champions the idea that architecture can facilitate social bonds among residents while providing functional and aesthetic living spaces.

At its core, the design aims to create a meaningful connection between individuals who share the same residential environment. The project incorporates various communal areas, such as shared kitchens and dining spaces, which serve as pivotal elements for fostering interaction among residents. The architectural layout is designed to encourage neighbors to come together, share meals, and engage in conversations, thereby creating a supportive and vibrant community atmosphere.

The function of the project extends beyond traditional housing. It provides a spatial framework that accommodates individual privacy while promoting interaction through communal spaces. The microhousing units designed within this project are compact yet efficient, allowing for personal space and comfort without compromising the essence of community living. This balance is essential in addressing the needs of diverse occupants, ensuring that both social and personal needs are met.

Key design features include expansive windows and open floor plans that enhance visibility and accessibility within the communal areas. This layout invites natural light into the shared spaces, creating an inviting and warm environment. The use of sustainable materials reflects a commitment to eco-friendly living, integrating elements such as wood and glass that establish a connection with nature while also being functional. The inclusion of green walls and raised garden beds further supports this initiative, serving both aesthetic and practical purposes by encouraging urban agriculture and biodiversity.

Unique design approaches in this project include the thoughtful arrangement of spaces that encourage spontaneous gatherings. The architectural design takes into consideration the flow of movement between private and communal areas, minimizing barriers while maximizing engagement opportunities. The strategic placement of the kitchen in a central location serves as a catalyst for social interaction, allowing residents to participate in the cooking process, thereby sharing not just meals but experiences and cultures.

The project's integration of off-grid systems such as solar energy panels and rainwater harvesting illustrates an awareness of environmental stewardship, making it a viable option for future urban developments. This sustainable approach is paired with a focus on well-being, as the design incorporates natural light, greenery, and community activities, contributing positively to the mental health of residents.

"Dine with Your Neighbour" ultimately represents an architectural vision that embraces community connection as a fundamental component of urban living. It is a testament to how thoughtful architectural design can address modern societal challenges by creating spaces that encourage interaction and understanding among neighbors. For those interested in exploring the specific architectural elements that define this innovative project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, a closer look at the project presentation is highly encouraged. Engaging with these resources will provide deeper insights into how this project translates architectural ideas into a cohesive living experience that promotes community and sustainability.
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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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