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Charred Wooden Shingles and Polished Concrete Define a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Authors:
Grecia Michelle Santana, Jaime Desiderio-arrieta
Charred Wooden Shingles and Polished Concrete Define a Multifunctional Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles alongside polished concrete, the design creates a seamless blend of modern functionality and community engagement, housing versatile spaces for urban life.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and open space.
02
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to provide structural integrity while reducing the carbon footprint.
04
Integrates native landscaping to promote biodiversity and minimize water consumption.
05
Offers adaptable indoor and outdoor communal spaces to foster social interaction and community engagement.
This architectural project represents a thoughtful integration of modern design principles with sensitivity to its surrounding context. Located in a vibrant urban area, the building serves a multifaceted function that caters not only to private residents but also to community engagement. The design reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovative use of materials, establishing a connection between the built environment and the natural world.

At the heart of the project is a clear emphasis on transparency and light. Large, strategically placed windows allow natural light to flood the interior spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere. This thoughtful approach fosters a sense of openness, encouraging interaction among the building's users. The façade is a noteworthy element of the architecture, featuring a harmonious blend of traditional and contemporary materials, including locally sourced brick, polished concrete, and green roof elements. Each material choice was carefully considered to enhance the building's aesthetic appeal while maintaining its functionality.

The layout of the project is designed to promote a seamless flow between spaces. The main entrance leads to an expansive atrium that serves as a communal hub. This area is adorned with natural materials that echo the earthy tones of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the connection between nature and architecture. From the atrium, pathways diverge into various functional spaces, including residential units, common areas, and offices, each designed with an attention to detail and functionality. The architectural design incorporates flexibility, ensuring that spaces can adapt to the diverse needs of its occupants over time.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. Attention to sustainable design practices is paramount, with the incorporation of energy-efficient systems, rainwater collection, and high-performance building envelopes. These strategies not only minimize the building's environmental footprint but also enhance the user experience by creating healthier living and working environments. The landscape surrounding the building features native plants, reducing water usage and promoting biodiversity. Outdoor areas are thoughtfully designed to serve as extensions of the interior, providing inviting spaces for relaxation and social interaction.

In addition to its aesthetic and functional qualities, the project represents a commitment to community involvement. It aims to serve as a catalyst for social interaction, with spaces designed for gatherings, events, and local initiatives. This focus on community underscores the project's intention to blend seamlessly into the urban fabric, making it a landmark for future urban development initiatives.

The architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project reveal intricate details that showcase the integration of contemporary architectural ideas with functional living. The innovative use of space and materiality ensures that every aspect of the design serves a purpose while enhancing the overall user experience. For those interested in exploring further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the conceptual framework that guided this project from initial ideas through to the final outcome. Engaging with these elements will illuminate the thought processes involved in its development and highlight the significance of this architectural endeavor within its urban context.
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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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