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Charred Wooden Shingles and Photovoltaic Integration in Sustainable Community Housing

Authors:
Marcin Piątek, Michał Sakowski, Łukasz Pawłuś
Charred Wooden Shingles and Photovoltaic Integration in Sustainable Community Housing
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and photovoltaic panels, the design enhances energy efficiency while fostering a community-centric living environment in Poznan, Poland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction time while offering structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes space usage and enhances natural light penetration.
04
Integrated photovoltaic panels contribute to the project's energy self-sufficiency.
05
Communal outdoor areas are designed to foster social interaction among residents.

The architectural design project known as MACROPRISM is located in Poznan, Poland. This initiative showcases a focused commitment to sustainability through a design that emphasizes both individual living spaces and communal interaction. The architecture encapsulates the essence of modern ecological practices while allowing for varied user experiences. The project effectively integrates into its urban context, promoting a balance of private and public functionalities.

Community-Centric Living Spaces

The design of MACROPRISM centers around adaptability and community engagement. Its architectural layout comprises angular forms that not only serve aesthetic purposes but also facilitate efficient use of space. Each unit is crafted to support different functions, whether for private living, working, or socializing, catering to diverse resident needs. Central to its design is an emphasis on shared spaces, which encourage social interaction among residents while allowing for personal privacy.

A notable feature of this project is the effective utilization of natural elements. Large glass panels enhance natural lighting within the spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere. The integration of outdoor areas, including communal gardens and gathering spots, fosters a sense of community and enhances residents' quality of life. The project’s landscaping blends seamlessly with its architecture, allowing for a unified and immersive living environment.

Innovative Materials and Sustainability

MACROPRISM employs a range of materials that reinforce its sustainable ethos. The predominant use of wood, specifically locally sourced timber, aligns with environmental values while contributing to the thermal efficiency of the structures. This material choice not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reflects a commitment to renewable practices.

The incorporation of photovoltaic panels on sloped roofs serves a dual purpose. They generate renewable energy while complementing the architectural design through their strategic placement. Additionally, the project includes recycled materials wherever possible, further reducing its environmental footprint.

An essential hallmark of the design approach is the integration of passive solar principles. The orientation and layout of buildings maximize solar gain, contributing to energy efficiency throughout the year. This thoughtful consideration of the environmental context demonstrates an advanced understanding of sustainable architecture.

Engagement with Urban Context

MACROPRISM actively engages with its urban surroundings by analyzing local climate conditions and geographical features. The design considers sun orientation and topography to ensure both functionality and aesthetic harmony within the broader urban landscape. The juxtaposition of the contemporary design with the traditional context of Poznan highlights a careful balance between innovation and historic awareness.

The approach highlights the project's commitment to reducing carbon emissions through high-energy efficiency systems and sustainable practices. This fosters an architectural dialogue that respects both the environment and the inhabitants’ needs.

For more detailed insights into the MACROPRISM project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, consider exploring a comprehensive presentation of the project. This will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative solutions applied and the architectural concepts that define this unique initiative.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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