Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Felix Gehrke
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Define Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles enveloping modular units that embrace natural light and flexible living spaces, this innovative design reimagines urban dwelling by fostering community engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and creates unique interior spaces.
04
Offers modular units that can easily adapt to changing resident needs over time.
05
Emphasizes communal areas designed to foster interaction among diverse resident groups.
The HOME HELLO project exemplifies a thoughtful response to the urban housing crisis that has increasingly taken shape in cities like Sydney, Australia. This architectural endeavor is not merely about creating living spaces; it represents a deeper commitment to addressing community needs while promoting a sustainable, flexible way of life. The project is centered around the concept of modular housing, which allows for diverse living arrangements to accommodate varying lifestyles and demographic groups, particularly focusing on young people and creative individuals seeking an engaging, supportive community.

Functionally, the HOME HELLO project serves as a residential environment that integrates both private and communal spaces. The design prioritizes interaction among residents, fostering community engagement while maintaining individual privacy. Each modular unit is carefully designed to provide versatility; they can be constructed in different arrangements according to the specific requirements of the site and the residents' needs. This adaptability means the architecture can evolve alongside its inhabitants, facilitating a living arrangement that is both responsive and relevant to changing circumstances.

The project incorporates a variety of materials that reflect both an aesthetic and functional approach. Wood is utilized as the primary construction material, chosen for its sustainability and warmth, significantly enhancing the overall living experience within the units. Complementing the timber, reinforced concrete provides structural integrity to the project while enabling an array of design possibilities. Additionally, the use of red clay contributes not only to the visual character of the building but also to its thermal efficiency, ensuring that the home remains comfortable year-round without excessive energy consumption.

Important elements of the design include large windows that invite natural light into the dwelling spaces while creating opportunities for visual connections to the outdoor environment. This integration of light enhances the feeling of openness in the units, which is crucial in urban settings where space can often feel constrained. Moreover, the architectural organization emphasizes accessibility; ample staircases and pathways function as both circulation routes and social spaces, encouraging residents to engage with one another and cultivate a sense of community.

A unique approach in the HOME HELLO design is its emphasis on modular growth. The architecture is structured in such a way that additional modules can be added as the needs of residents change, supporting both personal and social development. This adaptability is a crucial innovation for modern urban living, providing a practical solution to the challenge of static housing in a dynamic environment. Furthermore, the project is designed with communal areas in mind, which are intended to serve as gathering spaces for residents, thereby reinforcing social connections and collaborative living.

In summary, the HOME HELLO project serves as a significant architectural response to the contemporary challenges of urban living in Sydney. It highlights the potential for modular design to create adaptable living environments that foster community interaction and individual growth. Those interested in exploring the intricate details and innovative ideas behind this project are encouraged to review the accompanying architectural plans, sections, and overall designs. These elements provide a comprehensive glimpse into how the HOME HELLO project envisions redefining urban housing within a collaborative and sustainable framework.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy