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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Sustainable Urban Living

Authors:
Andrea Bosio, Cristina Caprioli
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Sustainable Urban Living
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and biophilic design principles, the residential complex redefines urban living by offering modular units that promote adaptability and communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that promotes natural ventilation and light.
04
Integrates adaptable living spaces with movable partitions for personalized layouts.
05
Encourages communal interaction through strategically designed shared areas.

### Overview

"Bending Standards" is an architectural project situated near the Termini railway station in Rome, designed to address the complexities of urban collective living. The intent is to create adaptable living spaces that cater to a diverse demographic, fostering both privacy and communal interactions. The project integrates modern design principles to enhance inclusivity and responds to the challenges of contemporary urban environments.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The design features a series of modular units that balance private and communal areas, strategically allocating spaces for sleeping, cooking, bathing, and social gatherings. Central to this layout is the living room, functioning as an informal gathering hub, equipped with movable seating to accommodate various activities. The compact kitchen is designed for flexibility, facilitating interactions during meal preparation while occupying a minimal footprint. Each unit's bedroom reflects a dual approach to privacy and community, while the efficient bathroom design emphasizes utility without compromising comfort.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materiality of the project underscores a commitment to sustainability and user-centric design. Predominant materials include wood, which imparts warmth, glass for transparency and natural light, concrete for structural integrity, and textiles in movable partitions to enhance flexibility. This thoughtful selection not only contributes to the aesthetic quality of the spaces but also aligns with biophilic design principles, enhancing the relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings. The integration of greenery in and around the buildings further reinforces this environmental sensitivity.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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