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Charred Wooden Shingles and Precast Concrete Sculpting a New Urban Housing Landscape

Authors:
Jordan Trachtenberg, Johana Mendoza, Fatin Mosawi, Yenifer Cordoba
Charred Wooden Shingles and Precast Concrete Sculpting a New Urban Housing Landscape

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and precast concrete, the design redefines urban housing through a meticulous blend of sustainability and community engagement, creating a versatile residential environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates extensive green roofs to support urban biodiversity.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Connects communal spaces through elevated walkways to promote social interaction.
05
Adapts residential units to accommodate varying family sizes and lifestyles.
The architectural design project, Robin Hood Gardens, located in London, reinterprets a historical social housing estate with a focus on sustainability, community interaction, and functional modern living. The project emphasizes a holistic approach to urban design, creating a conducive environment for current and future residents through innovative design solutions. It aims to improve the integration of social spaces, enhance connectivity, and promote a sense of belonging among the community.

Creating an engaging residential environment, Robin Hood Gardens incorporates various unit types to accommodate a diverse demographic, from singles to families. The use of materials such as precast concrete, glass, and sustainably sourced timber aligns with modern architectural practices while ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. Central to the design are landscaped areas that serve dual purposes: enhancing biodiversity and providing communal spaces for residents.

Sustainability and Community Engagement

What distinguishes Robin Hood Gardens from other housing projects is its thoughtful integration of green spaces within a compact urban environment. The architectural design utilizes green roofs and landscaping that not only enhances the visual appeal but also supports ecological functions, promoting wildlife habitats and improving air quality. The spiraling paths and communal gardens encourage social interaction and physical activity, fostering a sense of community among residents. This design approach prioritizes the residents’ well-being and socialization through accessible and inviting public spaces.

Flexibility and Versatility in Design

The architectural layout promotes flexibility through adaptable living units. By offering various housing types and configurations, including studio apartments and multi-bedroom units, the design addresses the changing needs of urban living. The internal structure supports diverse living arrangements and facilitates ease of movement across communal areas. This versatility is evident in the introduction of walkways and bridges that enhance accessibility and connectivity throughout the estate. Residents can easily navigate between their homes and shared spaces, reinforcing social ties and ensuring an interconnected living experience.

For a comprehensive understanding of the design and its architectural nuances, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further. Detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements provide valuable insights into the innovative approaches taken in developing Robin Hood Gardens. Engaging with these resources can deepen appreciation for the thoughtful integration of sustainable practices and community-centric design within modern architecture.
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MICROHOME
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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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