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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design in Urban Housing Integration

Author:
Adan Çardak
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design in Urban Housing Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and featuring a modular blueprint, this urban housing solution redefines affordable living by seamlessly integrating with Berlin’s vital transport infrastructure.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing fire resistance while offering aesthetic appeal.
02
Modular construction allows for flexible living arrangements and efficient use of space.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes structural performance and maximizes interior volume.
04
The integration with Berlin’s Stadtbahn promotes sustainable commuting options for residents.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure both sustainability and improved thermal performance in housing units.
The project at hand is an innovative architectural endeavor that seeks to address the urgent issue of affordable housing in Berlin, Germany, with a focus on an area adjacent to the Berliner Stadtbahn. This design represents a thoughtful response to the intersection of urban living and public transportation, facilitating a unique integration of residential spaces within the existing infrastructure. The project aims to enrich the urban experience by promoting community engagement, accessibility, and sustainability, all essential elements in contemporary architecture.

Functionally, the project serves as a multifaceted residential scheme that accommodates diverse living arrangements, catering to a wide range of demographic groups. The design intentionally blurs the boundaries between public and private spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction among residents. The residential units are thoughtfully organized to provide both privacy and a sense of belonging within the vibrant community setting. By incorporating various amenities and communal areas, the design fosters a lifestyle that is not just about living space, but about enhancing the quality of urban life.

A notable aspect of the project is its emphasis on materiality. The architects chose a combination of concrete, glass, and wood to construct the building, ensuring robust performance while also contributing to an appealing aesthetic. The concrete provides stability and structure, supporting the weight of the building, while large glass elements help to create transparency and a sense of openness. This interplay between solid and translucent materials allows natural light to permeate the interior spaces, enhancing residents' well-being. Wood elements in the design not only add warmth but also reflect an ecological awareness and commitment to sustainability.

The layout of the project is carefully considered. Each residential unit is designed to maximize space usage while ensuring comfort and functionality. Public amenities are interwoven with the living spaces, offering residents opportunities for leisure and interaction right at their doorstep. These include communal gardens, recreational areas, and spaces for community events. Such thoughtful planning strengthens community ties and fosters a sense of belonging, aligning with modern urban living trends where interpersonal connections are increasingly valued.

What sets this architectural design apart is its approach to integrating affordable housing with vital transport links. The strategic location near the Stadtbahn enhances accessibility for residents, facilitating ease of movement throughout the city. This positioning not only helps to address the need for affordable housing but also promotes the use of public transportation, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint and a sustainable urban environment.

This project demonstrates a profound understanding of the dynamics between architecture, community, and urban infrastructure. It embodies a vision that prioritizes the needs of its inhabitants while remaining mindful of the surrounding environment. The careful selection of materials, the innovative design of living spaces, and the incorporation of public amenities all serve to create a cohesive and functional urban habitat.

For those interested in exploring this architectural project further, examining elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will yield deeper insights into the intricacies and intentions behind the project. The interplay of design ideas and innovative approaches within this project reveals a commitment to enhancing urban life in a meaningful way. Readers are encouraged to delve into the details of this design to appreciate the comprehensive thought and planning that have gone into creating an adaptable and engaging residential environment.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
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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