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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Community Hub with Flexible Spaces

Authors:
Wenjia Li, Chen Li, Huaqiu Zhou
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Community Hub with Flexible Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a double-glazed Natural Wall, the design creates a seamless blend of modern sustainability and traditional craftsmanship while serving as a versatile community space for various activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a unique Natural Wall made of double-glazed glass that enhances natural light and visual connection to the landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetics but also for their protective qualities against weathering.
03
The structure features cross-laminated timber panels that provide strength while minimizing environmental impact through sustainable sourcing.
04
A flexible interior layout allows the space to adapt seamlessly for various community activities and gatherings.
05
The project integrates local stone into its foundation, reflecting regional building traditions and enhancing thermal performance.
The project represents a thoughtful reimagining of architectural traditions within a contemporary context, specifically within the rich cultural landscape of Latvia. It focuses on blending the enduring characteristics of traditional Latvian architecture with modern design practices, creating a space that serves both functional and aesthetic purposes. The architecture embodies a commitment to sustainability and the adaptive reuse of materials, highlighting the importance of environmental consciousness in modern design.

This project functions as a multi-purpose community space, designed to accommodate various activities including yoga classes, social gatherings, and dining experiences. The layout encourages interaction and engagement among users, fostering a sense of community that resonates with the cultural context of its location. By providing flexible spaces that can adapt to different uses, the project successfully meets the dynamic needs of its occupants, promoting an inclusive environment.

Key architectural elements contribute to the overall design narrative. One of the most distinctive features is the Natural Wall, which comprises a double-glazed glass facade. This innovative approach enhances the building’s connection to its surroundings, allowing for ample natural light while maintaining energy efficiency. The transparency of the wall also serves a dual purpose—creating visual links to the exterior landscape while inviting nature into the interior spaces. This design choice not only highlights the beauty of the natural environment but also fosters well-being among users by connecting them to the outdoors.

In terms of materials, the project employs natural stone for its structural base, echoing traditional construction methodologies that provide thermal mass and durability. Sustainable woods used for interior finishes, coupled with a metal roof that features a unique contour, create a harmonious blend of textures and forms. The careful selection of materials reflects both environmental responsibility and respect for local craftsmanship, ensuring that the building is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The spatial organization of the project further emphasizes its community-oriented philosophy. Open floor plans encourage fluid movement throughout the spaces, allowing users to navigate seamlessly between different areas. The design integrates changing rooms, reception areas, and communal rooms, facilitating various activities while maintaining a cohesive overall flow. Unique landscaping inside the building enhances this relationship between interior and exterior spaces, seamlessly extending the experience of nature into the daily lives of the occupants.

The architectural design stands out due to its ability to balance modern innovation with historical references, creating a structure that respects cultural heritage while inviting contemporary practices. This synthesis of old and new is evident in the innovative use of glass and the structure's dynamic silhouette. Both elements serve to broaden the architectural narrative, emphasizing the importance of context in design.

As you explore this architectural project further, you'll find detailed architectural plans, sections, and visuals that offer deeper insights into the design concepts. Each element of the project has been meticulously considered to foster an enriching environment that invites users to engage, reflect, and connect with both the space and each other. For those interested in understanding the nuances of architectural design, reviewing these materials will provide a comprehensive view of the project’s intent, aesthetic decisions, and functional strategies.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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