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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Urban Living Solutions

Authors:
Sara Badalinezhad, Diego de la Maza, Leon Ladišić, Derya Ucan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Flexibility in Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

With its distinctive charred wooden shingles and flexible modular design, this urban housing solution redefines communal living by seamlessly integrating private spaces with shared amenities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Modular design allows for flexible reconfiguration of living spaces based on resident needs.
03
Central core integrates essential amenities, promoting community engagement and accessibility.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels provide a sustainable and lightweight structural solution.
05
Interactive communal areas are strategically placed to encourage social interaction among residents.
The architectural design project known as Berlin Space + presents a creative solution to the pressing challenges of urban living, particularly in a city with a rapidly evolving demographic landscape like Berlin. This project encapsulates a vision of adaptability and community, striving to meet the diverse needs of its residents while promoting sustainable living practices. The primary function of this architectural endeavor is to provide a modular housing solution that can evolve with its inhabitants, reflecting contemporary trends in urban design.

Berlin Space + operates on the idea that residential settings should not just be static structures but should instead empower residents to shape their living environments according to their unique lifestyles. This concept is manifest in a layout that incorporates a mix of private and communal spaces, facilitating interaction among residents while still offering individual privacy. The design features a central core that serves as a vital structural and social hub within the building, containing essential amenities such as bathrooms and communal facilities. This strategic positioning increases accessibility and reinforces the project's intent to foster community engagement.

The private units, characterized by their flexibility, allow for various living arrangements, accommodating either individual residents or families. The use of modular configurations empowers residents to customize their spaces, providing the opportunity for adjustment as their needs change over time. This adaptability not only caters to the diverse demographic in Berlin but also emphasizes a sense of personal ownership within a collective living framework.

A notable aspect of the Berlin Space + project is its commitment to fostering community interactions through thoughtfully designed shared spaces. Communal kitchens, dining areas, and lounges are interspersed throughout the building, offering residents the opportunity to socialize and collaborate. These areas are carefully crafted to promote a sense of belonging and shared identity among residents, breaking down the isolation often felt in traditional residential environments.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in its emphasis on flexibility and community orientation. The architectural framework is modular, allowing for rearrangement of living spaces to cater to shifting social dynamics. The layout encourages fluid movement across different zones while preserving personal privacy, striking a balance that is often challenging in high-density urban settings. This innovative approach signifies a shift away from conventional residential designs, which can often impose rigid structures on inhabitants, limiting their ability to adapt their environments.

The material choices employed in the construction of Berlin Space + are equally significant to the project's ethos. The combination of durable materials such as steel for the structural framework and concrete for flooring provides the building with the necessary resilience to withstand urban challenges while also incorporating elements that enhance comfort and warmth, such as wood in communal areas. This thoughtful selection of materials not only addresses structural integrity but also resonates with the project's objective of creating welcoming and inclusive environments.

The architecture of Berlin Space + represents a forward-thinking response to contemporary urban living. By focusing on adaptability, community engagement, and sustainability, this project provides a valuable template for future housing developments. Its design transcends basic residential needs, offering a holistic approach to living in an urban context where flexibility and social interaction are increasingly paramount.

Those interested in exploring the intricacies of Berlin Space + are encouraged to examine the accompanying architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that delve deeper into the nuances of this innovative project. By reviewing these elements, readers can gain further insights into the thoughtful design strategies employed in this architectural endeavor.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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