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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Sustainability in Collaborative Living Spaces

Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Sustainability in Collaborative Living Spaces
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Modular units composed of charred wooden shingles and integrated hydroponic gardens create a sustainable living environment designed to foster community collaboration in agricultural settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units allow for easy transport and adaptability to various landscapes.
02
Integration of hydroponic systems enhances food production within the living spaces.
03
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure structural efficiency while reducing carbon footprint.
05
Community gardens promote collaboration and sustainable practices among residents.

**Overview and Intent**

The Biohubs project is situated in the Saint Lawrence Valley region of Quebec, Canada. It addresses the challenges of urban sprawl and an aging agricultural workforce by promoting sustainable living through permaculture and community-building efforts within a regenerating agricultural landscape. The initiative is designed to integrate residential spaces with agricultural activities, establishing a framework that encourages collaboration among residents and seasonal farmworkers.

**Architectural Strategy and Materiality**

The Biohubs feature a modular design utilizing prefabricated units that enhance construction efficiency and allow for adaptability in response to varying site conditions. Each building incorporates sustainable materials such as insulated sandwich roofing panels, timber trusses, and double-glazing windows, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and energy efficiency. The overall architectural style favors contemporary simplicity, focusing on functionality and sustainability.

The interior functional layout includes multipurpose living areas, which accommodate various uses through flexible furniture solutions, such as Murphy beds that convert spaces efficiently. Outdoor integration is emphasized through balconies and decks that connect residents with the natural surroundings, while integrated gardening systems, including hydroponic and self-irrigated gardens, promote an active engagement with food production.

**Sustainability and Technological Integration**

The sustainable ethos is further exemplified through the incorporation of renewable energy systems. Solar panels installed on rooftops reduce reliance on external energy sources, while a rainwater harvesting system supports irrigation efforts and minimizes water waste. The project also prioritizes community interaction via shared spaces such as communal gardens and participant-led farming initiatives, fostering connections among residents and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Unique features of the Biohubs include their transportability, allowing for ease of relocation and assembly to meet diverse needs, and a focus on agricultural productivity that distinguishes this development from typical residential projects. The modular design approach facilitates a participatory construction method, empowering residents to contribute actively to their living environment.

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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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Competition organisers

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
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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