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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Sustainable Community Center Featuring Daylighting and Natural Ventilation

Authors:
Sergio Bianchi, Fiorella Campodonico Roy
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create a Sustainable Community Center Featuring Daylighting and Natural Ventilation

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and accented by local stone, the community center seamlessly integrates energy-efficient design elements like natural ventilation and daylighting to create a welcoming shared space for local residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design employs charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while reducing the building's carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design enhances both aesthetic appeal and spatial efficiency within the interiors.
04
Large window openings optimize daylighting and promote natural ventilation throughout the facility.
05
Sustainable features include a green roof that supports local biodiversity and stormwater management.
The architectural design project presents a harmonious blend of innovation, functionality, and contextual relevance. Located in a vibrant urban setting, the project serves as a pivotal addition to its surroundings, representing a commitment to contemporary architectural practices while respecting the existing landscape. This project fulfills both public and private needs, catering to a diverse range of users and uses, thereby enhancing community interaction and engagement.

The design embodies a clear concept focused on integrating sustainability within urban life. By incorporating eco-friendly materials and advanced energy-efficient systems, the project aims to minimize its environmental footprint while maximizing human comfort and connectivity. This emphasis on sustainability is reflected in both the choice of materials and the design strategies employed throughout the building. For instance, the use of locally sourced stone cladding not only adds aesthetic value but also supports regional industries, reflecting a commitment to the local economy.

A notable aspect of this architectural design lies in its thoughtful spatial organization. The layout effectively balances open communal areas with private spaces, facilitating interaction while ensuring personal privacy. The main entrance is crafted to invite visitors, encouraging them to engage with the space upon arrival. Inside, the flow of movement is intuitive, guiding occupants naturally from public areas like the lobby and meeting rooms to more secluded spaces such as offices and study areas. This design approach not only enhances user experience but also promotes a sense of belonging and community within the building.

Another critical detail of the project involves the incorporation of natural light as a design element. Expansive glass facades ensure that interior spaces are well-lit throughout the day, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing the well-being of its occupants. This focus on daylighting is complemented by strategic overhangs that provide shade during warmer months, balancing light with thermal comfort. Additionally, the integration of green roofs contributes to both the aesthetic appeal and the ecological footprint of the building, offering benefits such as improved air quality and stormwater management.

The architectural design also showcases a unique interplay of materials. The combination of reinforced concrete and steel provides the structural integrity necessary for modern buildings while allowing for a variety of finishes that cater to different functional needs. Elements such as engineered wood details in accent areas add warmth and texture, creating an inviting atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the more industrial materials. This thoughtful juxtaposition emphasizes the modern ethos of the project while remaining approachable and inviting.

Moreover, the project actively engages with its context by reflecting local cultural nuances. It draws inspiration from the architectural vernacular of the region, consciously adopting forms and elements that resonate with the community's identity. Public spaces within the building are designed not only for functionality but also as venues for cultural exchange, fostering a sense of pride among the community members who use them.

Lastly, the project’s commitment to innovation extends beyond materials and aesthetics. The building incorporates cutting-edge technology for climate control, lighting, and security systems, ensuring that it meets contemporary standards for efficiency and safety. This integration of smart systems enhances the user experience by providing personalized control over comfort levels, further emphasizing the project's design ethos centered around user well-being.

For those looking to gain deeper insights into this architectural design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall visual representations will provide a comprehensive understanding of the functional and design intentions behind this project. The architectural ideas represented in this work serve as a testament to a forward-thinking approach that balances sustainability with the cultural and social dynamics of the community it inhabits. Engaging with the intricacies of the design will enrich the appreciation of how architecture can thoughtfully respond to its environment while addressing the needs of those who inhabit it.
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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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