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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Elevate Historical Barn Into a Community Wellness Hub

Authors:
Valerio Piccolo, Andrea Piccolo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Elevate Historical Barn Into a Community Wellness Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and natural stone into a historically preserved barn, this design transforms the structure into a vibrant community wellness hub that engages both its heritage and the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes charred wooden shingles, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
A mini-hydropower system harnesses local water sources to promote energy sustainability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
04
The design incorporates wellness facilities that seamlessly integrate outdoor meditation zones.
05
Historic details of the original barn are preserved and highlighted throughout the new layout.
This architectural project presents a thoughtful restoration of a historical barn, strategically situated in a picturesque rural setting characterized by expansive greenery and minimal development. The design emphasizes both the preservation of the barn's architectural heritage and the introduction of contemporary functionalities that cater to modern needs.

At its core, the project represents a synthesis of historical reverence and modern design principles, showcasing a unified vision for restoring and revitalizing an important local landmark. The renovated space serves multiple functions including communal gathering areas, wellness facilities, and areas for reflection—all interwoven with the natural environment.

The project layout is intuitively organized into distinct zones that facilitate various activities while promoting social interaction. The main building features a ground floor equipped with communal spaces such as a kitchen, dining area, and meditation room, which encourage engagement among visitors. An intelligently designed underground level houses wellness amenities like saunas and silent spaces aimed at relaxation, further reinforcing the project’s dedication to holistic well-being.

Unique features of this architectural design include the integration of outdoor meditation zones and children's playgrounds, which are thoughtfully arranged to foster connection with nature and community interaction. These areas not only enhance the user's experience but also underscore the project’s commitment to creating a family-friendly environment.

The materiality of the project plays a crucial role in achieving its objectives. The use of natural stone for the façade helps maintain a visual connection to the barn’s historical context while ensuring durability. Incorporating wood throughout the design adds warmth and a tactile quality that invites users to engage more intimately with their surroundings. Expanses of glass are used strategically to maximize natural light and frame picturesque views of the landscape, seamlessly blending the indoors with the outdoors.

Moreover, the roof is designed with sustainability in mind, featuring solar panels that promote energy independence. The project also integrates a mini-hydropower plant within the site's water features, further enhancing its ecological responsibility and commitment to renewable energy. These sustainable technologies are pivotal elements that not only support the building’s function but also align with contemporary standards for environmental stewardship.

The project’s unique design approach lies in its ability to adapt an existing historical structure for new societal purposes while preserving its authenticity. This adaptive reuse concept illustrates the architects' desire to honor the past while creating a space that meets present-day demands. The result is an architectural solution that encourages community connection, ecological awareness, and personal wellness.

Overall, this project exemplifies a meticulous approach to architecture that balances historical integrity with modern functionality. Its thoughtful organization, meaningful material choices, and innovative design strategies collectively contribute to a revitalizing environment that engages users while respecting its historical roots. Readers interested in a deeper exploration of this architectural endeavor are encouraged to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas presented. These elements provide valuable insight into the project's execution and vision.
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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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