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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Units For Community Living Surrounded by Northern Landscapes

Author:
Allison Righi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Units For Community Living Surrounded by Northern Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and modular units, this community living initiative emphasizes sustainability and connection to the Northern landscape while providing adaptable residential spaces for shared experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features modular units designed for flexible reconfiguration based on guest needs.
04
Employs piezoelectric components to harness energy from wind vibrations.
05
Utilizes a unique bent A-frame design to enhance aesthetic appeal and spatial efficiency.
The architectural design project is a comprehensive community immersion initiative aimed at creating modular housing units that harmonize with the surrounding natural environment. Located in an area renowned for its visibility of the Northern Lights, the project emphasizes a blend of private living spaces and communal interaction. This initiative focuses not only on providing comfortable accommodations but also on fostering a sense of community among its occupants while ensuring sustainability through innovative design approaches.

Unique Community-Oriented Design Features

The architectural design embraces a modular approach, allowing for flexibility in the arrangement and use of space. Each guest unit can be reconfigured to adapt to varying group sizes and needs, enhancing the overall functionality of the project. This modularity enables visitors to experience personalized accommodations while maintaining a shared sense of community.

Critical to the design is the central community hub, which serves as a social focal point. This facility includes a lounge area with expansive windows to maximize natural light and frame the stunning views of the Northern Lights, a dining area designed for communal meals, and an outdoor patio that extends the indoor living space into the natural surroundings. This approach to space utilization emphasizes interaction while providing privacy for individual units.

Sustainable Material Choices and Techniques

The project exemplifies a commitment to sustainability through careful material selection and architectural techniques. Key materials include sustainably sourced wood for structural components and large panels of glass to enhance visibility and natural lighting within the units. Furthermore, the design incorporates recycled wood pellets for heating, creating an efficient energy system that lowers environmental impact. The inclusion of piezoelectric components in the walls captures energy from wind vibrations, further contributing to the project's sustainability efforts.

Water management is another essential feature, with rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the design to secure a sustainable water supply for residents. This approach minimizes the ecological footprint and promotes environmental responsibility.

The overall layout employs a hexagonal design, which optimizes spatial efficiency while complementing the local landscape. Each guest unit is strategically oriented to ensure minimum visual disruption and maximum privacy, enhancing the connection to nature that the design seeks to promote.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, explore the project presentation. Insights into the innovative architectural ideas and their implications for community-focused environments can provide a deeper appreciation of this initiative.
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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
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