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Charred Wooden Shingles and Prefabricated Components Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Jamie Jang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Prefabricated Components Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and prefabricated elements, the design redefines sustainable urban living by seamlessly combining aesthetic diversity with functional residential spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce construction waste.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates communal green spaces for urban gardening and social interaction.
05
Designed with flexible layouts to accommodate diverse living arrangements and community needs.
The architectural project MOSAIC, located in Melbourne, Australia, embodies a thoughtful response to the escalating demand for affordable housing within one of the world’s most vibrant metropolitan areas. The design represents an inclusive approach to urban living, catering to a culturally diverse population while maintaining a commitment to sustainability and community integration. This project functions primarily as a residential solution, offering a range of housing types, including single-family units, apartments, and lofts, all designed to optimize space and promote interaction among residents.

The overall architectural strategy utilizes a modular framework that allows for various configurations and adaptability over time. This flexibility is a core feature of MOSAIC, promoting an environment where individual needs and community dynamics can coalesce harmoniously. The use of prefabricated components lays the groundwork for efficient assembly on-site, reducing construction time and costs while ensuring a high standard of quality that is vital in meeting the urgent housing needs of the area.

A notable aspect of the project is its attention to materiality. The architectural design incorporates an array of sustainable materials, including timber, steel, glass, concrete, and composite materials. These elements are chosen not only for their structural integrity but also for their environmental footprint. This careful selection contributes to the project's overarching goal of minimizing ecological impact, ensuring that the living spaces remain both functional and environmentally conscious.

The layout of MOSAIC is particularly designed to foster community engagement. Communal areas are integrated within the project, providing residents with spaces for social interaction, recreation, and communal activities, while individual units maintain a sense of privacy. This duality is crucial in nurturing a sense of belonging, as residents can enjoy the benefits of community life without sacrificing personal space.

MOSAIC also reflects an understanding of the urban context in which it resides. Proximity to public transport and local amenities enhances its viability as a residential environment, making it accessible for a wide range of residents, from young families to single professionals. This connectivity is an essential factor in its design, ensuring that inhabitants can maintain their urban lifestyles while feeling at home in their living spaces.

Distinctively, the project encourages personalization of the units, allowing residents to infuse their cultural identities into their living environments. This aspect reinforces the notion of community, as personal expressions contribute to the shared narrative of the neighborhood. The design fosters an atmosphere of inclusivity that honors the varied backgrounds of its inhabitants, making it a representation of the city’s demographic richness.

Green spaces within MOSAIC are deliberately designed to enhance the living experience while reinforcing sustainable practices. Landscaped areas not only provide aesthetic benefits but also serve as spaces for urban gardening and social gatherings. These outdoor elements contribute to the overall well-being of the residents, promoting a healthy lifestyle in harmony with nature.

The architectural details of MOSAIC highlight a conscientious approach to both practicality and aesthetics. Large windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light and ventilation, creating an inviting atmosphere within the units. Variations in building heights and dynamic facades add visual interest while engaging with the surrounding urban landscape, ensuring that the project blends into its environment rather than imposing on it.

By prioritizing affordability, sustainability, and community, MOSAIC stands as a pertinent example of modern architectural practices. Its design encapsulates the essence of contemporary urban living, aligning with evolving lifestyle demands while addressing the critical issue of housing availability. For a deeper understanding of the project’s scope and intricacies, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs presented, which illustrate the innovative ideas shaping this forward-thinking endeavor.
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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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