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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define a Community Space for Tea Making

Author:
Matt Peterka
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define a Community Space for Tea Making

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and complemented by expansive glass panels, the design fosters a seamless connection with the natural surroundings while serving as a communal hub for the art of tea making.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a bent A-frame structure, optimizing natural light and airflow.
02
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a unique aesthetic and improved weather resistance.
04
Features a central courtyard that seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Incorporates communal tables, fostering collaboration and engagement in tea making.
The Gabled Community architectural project represents an intersection of traditional practices and contemporary design, situated in a setting that enhances its connection to nature and culture. Focused on the art of tea making, this project is designed to function as a communal space that encourages participation, reflection, and tranquility among its visitors. The architecture thoughtfully integrates with the landscape, creating a harmonious environment that celebrates both the cultural significance of tea and the principles of sustainability.

The design features a series of interconnected gabled structures that serve various functions, including communal areas for tea production, gathering spaces, and flexible multipurpose rooms. Each building exemplifies a commitment to bringing people together while also providing an immersive experience inherent in the art of tea making. The gabled roofs are particularly noteworthy, providing a distinctive visual characteristic that resonates with traditional architectural forms while facilitating passive ventilation and natural light within the interiors.

Materiality is a key component of the design, with a focus on natural and locally sourced materials that reflect the surrounding environment. The use of wood is prevalent, providing warmth and a tactile quality to both the interiors and exteriors of the structures. Stone elements are strategically incorporated to instill a sense of permanence and connection to the earth, complementing the lightweight nature of the wood. Glass is utilized extensively to create expansive openings that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing natural light to fill the interiors and enhancing the overall atmosphere of openness and serenity. The integration of metal roofing elements adds a contemporary twist while ensuring durability across various weather conditions.

Inside, the design prioritizes an easy flow between spaces, fostering interaction among visitors. Key features include communal tables in the tea-making area, which invite participation and collaboration. This focus on communal engagement is further reinforced by the central courtyard that serves as a gathering space, encouraging visitors to connect with their surroundings and each other. The layout supports a variety of activities, from community events to intimate gatherings, all while remaining anchored to the tea-making ethos that drives the project.

The Gabled Community is unique in its approach to integrating traditional cultural practices with modern architectural principles. By emphasizing the significance of tea making as a shared experience, the design infuses the space with purpose and meaning. The architectural outcome presents not just a functional building but also a setting that encourages mindfulness, relaxation, and the appreciation of craft.

For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this project, it is beneficial to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs that detail the thoughtful ideas driving this initiative. By taking the time to review these elements, readers can gain a more comprehensive understanding of how the design effectively embodies the principles of community, sustainability, and connectivity to the land.
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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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