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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Flexible Living Environments in a Modular Design

Authors:
Zhuofan Ma, Yicong Shan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Flexible Living Environments in a Modular Design

Project in-detail

Embracing charred wooden shingles and natural stone, the design fosters flexible living environments that prioritize personalization and adaptability within contemporary residential spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural strength and sustainability.
03
Features a modular design that allows for adaptable living configurations.
04
Includes a virtual operation manual enabling users to personalize their space in real-time.
05
Emphasizes seamless indoor-outdoor connections through large, panoramic glazing.
The architectural design project titled "Customizing Domesticity (and Radicalizing the Situation)" represents a thoughtful investigation into the nature of home design and the role of individual agency in shaping domestic environments. Positioned within the context of contemporary living, this project aims to redefine the relationship between architecture and its inhabitants, emphasizing customization and flexibility as essential components of modern architecture.

This project serves not only as a physical manifestation of living spaces but also as a conceptual framework that encourages homeowners to take control over their environments. By utilizing a virtual operation manual, the design promotes a participatory approach, enabling users to imagine, plan, and execute modifications to their homes in a virtual setting before bringing those ideas to life in reality. The emphasis on personalization speaks to a growing desire for spaces that reflect individual identities and lifestyles, breaking away from the conventional standards of architectural design that often prioritize uniformity.

One of the most notable aspects of this project is the provision of a modular layout, allowing for significant adaptations in space utilization. The design incorporates a systematic grid layout where individual units can be manipulated—walls can be added or removed, and rooms can be resized according to specific needs. This versatility invites a rethinking of how spaces can function, promoting an architecture that is not only responsive to current lifestyles but also anticipates future requirements.

The architectural details speak to a careful thought process in material selection and visual coherence. Natural stone is utilized for indoor finishes, creating a sense of warmth and connection to the earth, while glass plays a crucial role in fostering a seamless interaction between indoor and outdoor environments. The integration of daylight through expansive windows not only enhances aesthetics but also contributes to the overall wellbeing of the inhabitants by connecting them to their surroundings. Flooring options vary from textured tiles to concrete, allowing homeowners to select finishes that resonate with their personal style.

The project also distinguishes itself with its innovative environments that incorporate underlying themes of exploration—homes situated underwater and structures positioned in extraterrestrial settings. These imaginative concepts reflect a forward-thinking approach, inviting potential residents to envision their lives in contexts that extend beyond traditional urban living. The inclusion of whimsical elements serves to challenge the norms of architectural thinking, inspiring users to consider how design can extend into environments previously thought unattainable.

This emphasis on interactivity highlights another unique approach; the design not only focuses on individual customization but also on everyday experiences shaped by environmental context. The ability to personalize not just the physical attributes of one’s home but also the ambience, through adjustable environmental settings, enhances the psychological connection homeowners can have with their space.

In addition to individual customization, the project fosters a sense of community. The designs advocate for interconnectedness, showcasing how collective expressions of style can culminate in a visually cohesive neighborhood. This concept addresses social dynamics within confined living environments, suggesting that homes can reflect personal narratives while simultaneously contributing to a larger community ethos.

As such, "Customizing Domesticity (and Radicalizing the Situation)" serves as a manifesto for a new form of architecture that embraces individual agency and encourages direct engagement with the design process. It reflects the modern tendency to blend virtual possibilities with physical realties, paving the way for future architectural endeavors that prioritize personalization and adaptability. For those interested in exploring these architectural ideas further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provides a deeper understanding of how this project translates concept into tangible living spaces. Each detail contributes to the larger narrative of reimagining what home means in contemporary society. The exploration invites you to engage with the project presentation and discover the nuanced intricacies that define this thoughtful architectural endeavor.
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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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