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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Enhance Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Authors:
Ryan Crooks, Jude Leblanc
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Enhance Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades, the design integrates natural elements with a focus on adaptive living spaces that foster community engagement in an urban environment.
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 sustainable material use.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes communal green spaces that serve as social hubs for residents.
05
Designed with flexible living units accommodating various family structures.
This architectural project represents a thoughtful approach to urban living, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement through its design and functionality. The project features a series of mid-rise apartment buildings, integrating residential spaces with communal areas to foster a sense of belonging among residents. Utilizing a dual dwelling concept, the design facilitates interaction while providing the necessary privacy that modern living demands, making it suitable for a diverse range of family structures.

The primary function of this architectural design is to offer adaptable housing solutions within an urban context, addressing the challenges of increasing population density. The layout promotes not only individual living units but also shared communal spaces, thereby creating opportunities for social interaction and community building. Communal gardens, courtyards, and rooftop spaces serve as essential elements that enhance the residents' quality of life, encouraging outdoor activities and collaboration among neighbors.

Key aspects of the project include its strategic site planning and architectural composition. The arrangement of buildings is optimized to maximize natural light and airflow, which is particularly noted in the configuration of windows and balconies. Each apartment is designed with flexible spatial arrangements, allowing for modifications based on individual needs, which is an increasingly important consideration in contemporary residential architecture. This flexibility supports a range of lifestyles and family sizes, making the project relevant to a wider demographic.

Materials used in the construction of the project reflect a commitment to sustainability. Reinforced concrete provides structural stability, while extensive use of glass creates visual connectivity with the surroundings and maximizes daylighting within the living spaces. Steel components are likely incorporated to facilitate open and airy layouts, while wood finishes add warmth and a natural aesthetic that balances the more industrial elements. The project may also include sustainable materials, such as recycled products or locally sourced resources, reinforcing its focus on environmental responsibility.

The unique design approaches taken in this project set it apart from traditional urban housing developments. The integration of communal spaces not only meets practical requirements but also enhances the social fabric of the community. Such design encourages interactions among residents, making everyday living more engaging and connected. Additionally, the project's architecture takes cues from its surroundings, responding thoughtfully to the existing urban landscape while projecting a contemporary yet inviting character.

Natural ventilation strategies are embedded in the building design, with shading devices that reduce heat gain and lower energy consumption. This is a crucial aspect, as it not only contributes to the comfort of the residents but also aligns with broader sustainability goals. The rhythmic façade design introduces an element of visual interest while ensuring that the buildings maintain a cohesive look within the urban context.

For those interested in learning more about this architectural project, the presentation includes detailed architectural plans, sections, and visuals that showcase the comprehensive design ideologies and practical applications. Exploring these materials will provide deeper insights into the innovative concepts that underline this project, including its thoughtful integration of environmental and social considerations in modern architecture.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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