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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Turrets in Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Jordan Whitewood-Neal, Alanoud Al-Radaideh
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Turrets in Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and modular turret forms, the design establishes an eco-friendly community of interconnected living units that engage with the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features a modular hexagonal layout for flexibility in living arrangements.
03
Incorporates a composting system that recycles nutrients into the greenhouse.
04
Elevated structures designed to adapt to extreme Icelandic weather conditions.
05
Employs cross-laminated timber panels to reduce environmental impact and improve insulation.
The project "Living with the Landscape" is an architectural design initiative set in the unique geographical context of Iceland. It seeks to establish a cohesive connection between human habitation and the surrounding natural environment. The design emphasizes sustainability and social interaction through modular living units, creating a responsive framework capable of adapting to the climatic conditions characteristic of the region.

Modular Configuration and Community Integration

This architectural design features a series of interconnected hexagonal living units. Each module is optimized for functionality, allowing for varied living arrangements while fostering communal engagement. The central communal area serves as a focal point, promoting social interactions and shared experiences among residents. This layout not only strengthens community bonds but also enhances the practical use of space.

The use of timber as the primary construction material offers structural integrity while maintaining visual harmony with the landscape. The incorporation of light-permeable fabric cladding on upper sections enables natural light infiltration while providing necessary weather protection. These design elements collectively emphasize a commitment to sustainability, with waste management systems integrated into the architecture to promote environmental responsibility.

Innovative Sustainability Strategies

The project's commitment to sustainability is further illustrated through climate-responsive design strategies. Elevated structures help mitigate the effects of severe weather, ensuring the resilience of the living spaces. Additionally, the design incorporates a composting system that recycles nutrients back into the ecosystem, serving both environmental and agricultural functions.

The architectural approach emphasizes modular versatility, allowing for expansion and adaptation based on community needs and environmental changes. This dynamic characteristic distinguishes the project from traditional static living environments, facilitating an ongoing relationship between inhabitants and their surroundings.

Exploring Architectural Details

For a more comprehensive understanding of "Living with the Landscape," it is beneficial to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. The intent and functionality behind each element can be further appreciated through an examination of these architectural ideas, which demonstrate how form meets purpose in this innovative project. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural aspects to gain insights into how the design contributes to both individual living experiences and the broader context of sustainable architecture.
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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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