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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Layouts Integrate Nature and Community in Urban Living

Authors:
Luciano Espinoza, Nahuel Espinoza, Alejandro Galvez alvarez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Layouts Integrate Nature and Community in Urban Living

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and adaptable modular units, this urban dwelling harmoniously weaves greenery into its design, fostering a strong sense of community within residential living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Features a modular layout that allows for personalized living configurations.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Incorporates a graywater recycling system for sustainable irrigation and water management.
04
Designed with arched connections to promote fluid movement between spaces.
05
Promotes biophilic design principles, seamlessly integrating indoor and outdoor environments.
The architectural project Giardino presents a thoughtful exploration of urban living through its design and spatial organization. Situated in a densely populated area, this project aims to bridge the gap between nature and residential life, reflecting a contemporary understanding of community-centered living. Giardino embodies a landscape where greenery is seamlessly integrated into the architectural fabric, allowing inhabitants to experience a sense of peace amidst the hustle of urban life.

At its core, Giardino represents a shift in how residential architecture can respond to social needs by prioritizing communal spaces alongside private living areas. This dual functionality is evident in the layout, which incorporates both individual units and shared amenities that cultivate interaction among residents. The design suggests that architecture has the potential to foster community, providing public areas for gatherings while allowing for personal privacy.

The project's architectural composition features modular residential units arranged around central communal spaces. This layout not only encourages engagement but also grants residents options in terms of living arrangements, catering to diverse lifestyles. Each building incorporates a variety of studio and family-sized apartments, ensuring inclusivity for different demographic groups. Features such as wide circulation areas linked by arched connections evoke a historical architectural language while facilitating movement throughout the complex.

An important aspect of Giardino is its materiality. The project employs a thoughtful selection of materials, including timber for structural framing, concrete for its robustness, and expansive glass for enhanced light diffusion and visual connectivity to the environment. Timber’s organic warmth complements the minimalism of concrete, resulting in a balanced aesthetic that is both modern and inviting. The extensive use of glass not only illuminates interior spaces but also places a strong emphasis on the views of landscaped gardens and communal areas. This interplay of materials aligns with the project’s emphasis on sustainability, aiming to reduce energy consumption while fostering a healthy living environment.

Giardino differentiates itself through its unique design approaches. One notable feature is its adoption of flexible living configurations. The interior spaces are designed to adapt to the changing needs of residents over time, ensuring longevity and usability of the living environments. In addition, the project includes infrastructure for sustainable practices, such as graywater treatment systems that recycle water for irrigation purposes. This focus on ecological responsibility aligns with contemporary architectural trends concerned with environmental impacts.

The integration of nature remains central to the design philosophy of Giardino, resulting in communal gardens that serve both ecological and social functions. These spaces not only encourage residents to engage with one another but also enhance the overall well-being of the community by promoting outdoor activities. The landscaping elements are intentionally designed to provide biodiversity, contributing to urban ecological systems while enhancing the visual appeal of the architecture.

This architectural project serves as a compelling example of how thoughtful design can positively influence modern living and community dynamics. While exploring Giardino, one will discover a range of architectural plans and sections that illustrate these ideas in depth. A closer look at the architectural designs reveals the intricate details and careful considerations that define this residential project. For those interested in a deeper understanding of innovative architectural ideas, reviewing the project presentation will provide a wealth of insights into the relationship between design, community, and sustainability.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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