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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Community-Centric Spaces in Vineyard Setting

Authors:
Catherine Cooper, Kevin Cooper, Joe Ives
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Community-Centric Spaces in Vineyard Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, this community-driven design fosters social interaction and connection to nature within a vibrant vineyard setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame that optimizes natural light and airflow.
04
Centrally located courtyard promotes community interaction and social engagement.
05
Ties into the local vineyard landscape, connecting residents with their cultural heritage.
This architectural project encapsulates a thoughtful approach to designing a communal living space that emphasizes sustainability, community, and a harmonious relationship with nature. Situated in a region renowned for its vineyards, the project incorporates distinct features that reflect local culture while serving practical purposes essential for residents. The architecture is designed not only to provide functional living quarters but also to foster social interaction and engagement, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

The project consists of various structures, including residential units, a central courtyard, and a wine tasting pavilion. These elements are organized in a layout that balances private living areas with communal spaces. The residential units vary in height and configuration, offering a mix of single-story and multi-story options. This diversity in design accommodates different family sizes and lifestyles, ensuring that the architecture meets a range of needs. The residential spaces are thoughtfully oriented to maximize natural light and ventilation, which enhances the overall comfort of the inhabitants.

A key highlight of the project is the central courtyard, which serves as a communal gathering area. The circular design of this space encourages social interaction and provides a location where residents can come together for activities, fostering a sense of belonging and cooperation among neighbors. The integration of landscaping in this courtyard enhances the environment, introducing greenery and natural elements that complement the architectural forms.

The wine tasting pavilion stands out as a unique aspect of this project. Designed to celebrate the local viticulture, this pavilion is not merely a functional structure; it is an experiential space that invites residents and visitors to engage with the region's wine culture. The use of large glass panels creates a transparent façade that allows for sweeping views of the surrounding vineyards, blurring the line between indoors and outdoors. The incorporation of fabric canopies adds an element of warmth and approachability, providing shaded areas that encourage outdoor gatherings.

The materiality of the project is grounded in its context, with an emphasis on natural materials such as stone and wood. The use of local stone not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to thermal efficiency, ensuring the buildings are sustainable and energy-efficient. Concrete elements provide structural integrity and modern appeal, while wooden accents add a touch of warmth to the overall design. These choices in materiality reflect a conscious effort to create a dialogue between the architecture and its environment, making the structures feel as though they belong to the landscape rather than imposing upon it.

Sustainability is a core principle underpinning this architectural project. The design incorporates various eco-friendly features, including rainwater harvesting systems to promote water conservation and energy-efficient systems that reduce reliance on non-renewable resources. The installation of small wind turbines reflects a commitment to renewable energy, further demonstrating the project's focus on minimizing its environmental footprint.

In terms of unique design approaches, the project excels in blending modern architectural techniques with rustic aesthetics. This fusion creates a sense of place that resonates with both residents and visitors, evoking the character of the surrounding landscape while still embracing contemporary design ideals. The emphasis on communal living enhances the resident experience, with shared spaces that encourage socializing while also respecting individual privacy.

For those interested in exploring this architectural project further, a closer examination of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into its thoughtful execution. Detailed analysis of the various architectural ideas employed can reveal how this project effectively integrates community living with the natural environment, making it a noteworthy example of modern architecture in a rural setting. Engaging with the project presentation will undoubtedly enhance understanding and appreciation of the design's intricacies and intentions.
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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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