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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design Unite in A Sustainable Urban Housing Solution

Authors:
Massimiliano Malagò, Matthew Ninivaggi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design Unite in A Sustainable Urban Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design champions modular adaptability to create a contemporary urban housing solution that responds to diverse living needs while enhancing community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for both structural integrity and thermal performance, promoting energy efficiency.
03
Outdoor terraces are integrated into each unit, fostering connections to nature and private outdoor spaces.
04
Modular configurations allow for flexible living arrangements that can adapt to changing resident needs.
05
Community spaces are strategically placed to encourage social interactions and foster a sense of belonging among residents.
The project is an innovative architectural initiative aimed at addressing the pressing challenge of housing shortages in urban areas, particularly focusing on the context of Melbourne, Australia. This design represents a thoughtful approach to modern living, combining functionality with sustainability and community engagement. It reflects a response to the diverse needs of contemporary lifestyles, offering residents a flexible and adaptable living environment.

The architecture integrates modular housing concepts, allowing for a configuration that caters to varying family sizes and individual requirements. Each unit is designed with the potential for transformation, accommodating changing personal and communal needs without significant alterations to the overall structure. This ability to adapt sets the project apart from traditional housing solutions, promoting a notion of home that can evolve over time.

Central to the design are distinct terraced units that create a harmonious connection to the landscape while providing privacy for residents. Each unit features its own outdoor terrace, encouraging a relationship with nature and outdoor living. The layout facilitates natural light and ventilation, enhancing the quality of life indoors. The circulation within the building is thoughtfully designed, featuring open spiral staircases that serve as both functional pathways and visual focal points, promoting interaction among residents as they transition through different levels of the structure.

The project showcases a commitment to sustainability through the selection of materials and environmental design strategies. Key materials used include sustainably sourced wood, structural steel, expansive glass panels, and durable concrete. Each material was chosen not only for its aesthetic and structural properties but also for its performance in terms of sustainability. The use of wood brings warmth and a connection to the natural world, while steel facilitates large open spaces, and glass maximizes daylight within the interiors.

Passive design elements are incorporated throughout, with careful attention given to solar orientation, natural ventilation systems, and thermal mass, allowing the building to maintain comfortable internal temperatures year-round. In addition, the design includes provisions for incorporating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems. This thoughtful integration of sustainable technologies underscores the project’s aim to minimize its ecological footprint while fostering a resilient urban environment.

Unique design approaches are evident in the communal spaces, which are strategically interwoven within the architectural framework. These shared areas not only encourage social interaction among residents but also promote community engagement, enabling gatherings, shared activities, and collaboration. This aspect is crucial in modern urban living, where fostering a sense of belonging and connectivity can greatly enhance quality of life.

The project effectively challenges conventional notions of urban architecture by embodying a model that prioritizes adaptability and ecological responsibility. By merging flexible living environments with sustainable practices, it presents a forward-thinking solution to the urgent matter of housing scarcity in urban centers. The architectural focus on community connection and environmental engagement creates a space that is both practical and inspiring. Readers interested in deepening their understanding of this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that offer further insights into the innovative ideas and functional outcomes of this significant work.
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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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