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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define A Multifunctional Urban Hub

Author:
George Elvin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define A Multifunctional Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades, the design creates a seamless connection with nature while serving as a dynamic community hub for collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance while creating a distinctive visual character.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural strength and contribute to sustainable building practices.
03
Integrates expansive glass façades to maximize natural light and foster a connection with the surrounding environment.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design that not only adds architectural interest but also optimizes space for communal activities.
05
Incorporates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve energy efficiency, further enhancing its environmental sensitivity.
The architectural design project represents a thoughtful integration of form and function, reflecting a deep understanding of both its context and its intended use. Located in a vibrant urban area, the project aims to serve as more than just a physical structure; it embodies the aspirations of a community while fulfilling practical needs. The design focuses on creating a space that encourages interaction, collaboration, and a sense of belonging among its users.

At its core, the project is conceived to accommodate a diverse array of activities, serving as a hub for both work and social engagement. This multifunctionality is a key aspect of the architecture, as it allows the building to adapt to varying needs over time. The layout emphasizes open spaces that promote communication, while strategically placed private areas ensure that individuals can find the seclusion necessary for focused tasks. Large windows are utilized extensively throughout the design, ensuring ample natural light floods the interior, thus enhancing the overall user experience.

The materiality of the project is carefully considered, combining robustness with aesthetic appeal. The predominant use of concrete provides structural integrity while allowing flexibility in creating vast, unobstructed spaces. Complementing this, glass elements are integrated into the façade, creating a dialogue between the interior and exterior, and offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This interplay of materials not only enhances visual interest but also facilitates sustainability through energy-efficient systems that leverage natural light and ventilation.

The design incorporates durable, low-maintenance materials that echo the project’s commitment to sustainability. Wood accents are strategically placed to warm the space and add texture, providing a tactile quality that contrasts with the solid concrete surfaces. Attention to detail is manifest in the choice of finishes, with every element considered to ensure cohesion in the architectural expression. The use of local stone in landscape features reinforces the connection to the site, fostering a sense of place that resonates with the surrounding environment.

In terms of unique design approaches, the project distinguishes itself through its focus on biophilic design principles, integrating natural elements into the experience of the built environment. This is achieved through the inclusion of green walls, roof gardens, and strategically positioned outdoor spaces that encourage users to engage with nature. Such features not only enhance aesthetic value but also promote well-being, reducing stress and fostering creativity among occupants.

Furthermore, the project exemplifies a commitment to community engagement through its open design. Public spaces are interwoven with areas designated for private use, fostering opportunities for interaction while respecting the need for personal space. This balance is crucial, as it reflects contemporary architectural trends that prioritize user experience. The building's exterior is inviting, encouraging passersby to enter and explore, effectively blurring the boundaries between public and private areas.

As a cohesive entity, the architecture of this project reflects a synthesis of innovative ideas and practical solutions, offering an enriching environment that caters to the needs of its users. The intelligent design choices resonate throughout the building, from the overall massing that responds to the site context to the finer details that enhance usability. This thorough and considered approach to architecture not only maximizes functionality but also creates a setting that nurtures community bonds.

To gain a deeper understanding of this architectural design and its implications, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Delve into the architectural plans, sections, and specific design elements to appreciate the thought processes that shaped this impressive project. Engaging with the architectural ideas behind this design can enhance appreciation of the thoughtful balance between aesthetics and functionality that defines modern architecture today.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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