Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Form Create Community-Focused Space with Natural Light

Author:
Cristian López Inestroza
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Form Create Community-Focused Space with Natural Light

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a bold use of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design fosters a harmonious connection with nature while serving as a vibrant community center that encourages interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The exterior is clad in charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and reducing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration and creates dynamic interior spaces.
04
The landscape features native plants, promoting local biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
05
Flexible interior spaces can adapt to various community activities, fostering social engagement.
The architectural project presented showcases a thoughtful integration of modern design principles with the surrounding context, making it a significant contribution to its environment. Located in an area rich with cultural and natural elements, the design aims to create a space that not only serves its functional purpose but also enriches the community experience. With an emphasis on sustainability, flexibility, and aesthetic balance, the architecture presents a holistic approach to contemporary building practices.

This project embodies a commitment to creating a functional environment, where the primary use of the building is defined by its ability to adapt to various activities and events. The design supports both individual and communal uses, encouraging interactions among users while also providing spaces for retreat and contemplation. This duality of function reflects a deeper understanding of modern living, where the lines between work, leisure, and social engagement are increasingly blurred.

Significant details manifest throughout the project, beginning with its unique exterior form, which skillfully combines various geometries to reflect the local landscapes. The façade is characterized by a modular arrangement of materials that together create an inviting yet robust appearance. The selection of materials—reinforced concrete, glass, steel, and timber—was made with careful consideration for both performance and aesthetics. The concrete structure forms the backbone of the design, ensuring durability and longevity, while expansive glass panels allow for natural light to permeate the interiors, fostering a sense of openness and connection to the outdoors.

The timber accents introduce warmth and tactile qualities to the overall composition, enhancing the visual palette while supporting sound absorption within the shared spaces. Steel is employed in the framework and supporting elements, exhibiting strength while contributing to a sleek profile that distinguishes the building from its surroundings. Moreover, landscaping features around the site incorporate native plants, creating green areas that enhance ecological balance and encourage biodiversity.

A distinctive aspect of this architectural design is its commitment to sustainability. The building integrates energy-efficient technologies, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems, that not only reduce the ecological footprint but also educate users on environmental responsibilities. Attention to passive design strategies ensures that the space remains comfortable and functional throughout various seasons, promoting energy conservation through natural means.

Another noteworthy element is the interior layout, which is designed to promote flexibility and adaptability. Spaces are arranged to allow for easy modifications, accommodating different group sizes and functions without compromising the overall flow. Open floor plans are paired with strategically placed breakout rooms that provide a balance of communal areas and private settings, emphasizing user comfort and productivity. This focus on space usability reflects a modern understanding of how design can influence human behavior and interaction.

The architectural project also showcases a sensitivity to its cultural context. By incorporating local materials and motifs into the design, the building not only honors the traditions of the area but also establishes a sense of belonging for its users. This respect for local identity is apparent in the ornamentation, layout, and even in the chosen colors, which draw inspiration from the surrounding landscape and architecture.

In conclusion, this architectural project represents a sophisticated blend of contemporary design, sustainability, and community-focused thinking. It serves as a model for future developments, illustrating how thoughtful architecture can positively influence everyday life. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation to explore the intricacies of architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that bring this concept to life. For a comprehensive understanding of its architectural innovations, engage with the visual and textual elements that detail the project’s distinctive features and design ethos.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy