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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Earth Tones Create a Community Space in Texas

Authors:
Jair neftalí Guzmán ibarra, Zurisadai Mercado barrera, Valeria Palacios trabamala, Emilio eduardo Padilla villanueva
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Earth Tones Create a Community Space in Texas

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles that harmonize with the surrounding Texas landscape, this community space emphasizes sustainable design through earthy tones and natural materials, offering a welcoming hub for local gatherings and cultural activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength while minimizing material use.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and captures views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Emphasizes native landscaping to reduce water consumption and enhance local biodiversity.
05
Designed as a flexible community hub to accommodate various cultural and social activities.
This project reveals an architectural endeavor focused on harmonizing built forms with their surrounding landscape. It is designed as a community-oriented space that reflects local culture, emphasizes sustainability, and promotes a sense of belonging. The architecture illustrates a mindful engagement with the environment, encapsulating a story that not only honors the inhabitants' heritage but also encourages an interactive experience for visitors.

The design represents a thoughtful exploration of the relationship between space and people, rooted in respect for the geographical context. Featuring uncomplicated geometric forms and the thoughtful integration of human-scale elements, the project fosters accessibility and comfort. It functions not just as a building but as a gathering point for the community, promoting interaction and unity through shared experiences. The structures are crafted to serve multiple purposes, ranging from social events to educational activities, highlighting their adaptable nature.

Various important elements contribute to the overall architectural narrative. Pathways thoughtfully weave through the site, guiding people while enhancing the connection between different areas of the project. These routes signify movement and exploration, inviting visitors to traverse the space leisurely. Additionally, the use of figures in the imagery hints at a cultural homage, showcasing community members engaged in everyday activities, thus introducing a narrative layer that enhances the architectural appeal.

The materials chosen for the project resonate with the surrounding environment. Natural materials such as clay or adobe contribute to the organic feel of the structures, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the landscape. The possible inclusion of wood and metal elements suggests a balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern durability. Such materiality not only supports sustainability principles but also emphasizes a tactile relationship with the environment, as the textures and colors of the building resonate with the earth and sky.

A unique aspect of this architectural project is its commitment to ecological responsiveness. The landscaping incorporates native flora, enhancing both aesthetic value and biodiversity while ensuring that the site remains attuned to local climate conditions. This careful selection of plants not only beautifies the surroundings but acts as a sustainable strategy, providing habitats for local wildlife and reducing water usage.

The project also engages with the broader context of how architecture can serve as a vessel for cultural expression. Through the design, there is a palpable respect for the traditions and stories of the community, making the architecture a canvas for cultural representation. The careful placement of windows and open spaces allows natural light to fill the interiors, creating a welcoming atmosphere. The potential use of large glass surfaces invites views of the landscape, further blending the lines between the exterior and the interior.

Overall, the architecture stands out for its emphasis on community engagement, sustainability, and cultural resonance. The elegant simplicity of the design invites introspection and connection, encouraging users to reflect on their relationship with the landscape and each other. Readers interested in understanding the full scope of this project are encouraged to explore additional materials, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural designs that provide a deeper insight into the underlying ideas and intricacies of this thoughtful endeavor. The project showcases how architecture can foster community, honor the past, and look toward a sustainable future.
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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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