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Charred Wooden Shingles and Prefabricated Elements Define a Sustainable Mixed-Use Community Integration

Authors:
Hany Maher Khalil Ibrahim, Rana Hany Maher Khalil
Charred Wooden Shingles and Prefabricated Elements Define a Sustainable Mixed-Use Community Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and biophilic design strategies, the structure seamlessly integrates into its urban context while serving as a dynamic mixed-use space for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to maximize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the interior spaces.
04
Includes a green roof that supports biodiversity, fosters ecological balance, and improves energy efficiency.
05
Integrates community spaces with flexible layouts, encouraging collaboration and social interaction among users.
The architectural design project under analysis is a thoughtfully conceived structure that harmonizes aesthetic appeal with functionality, embodying a clear vision distinct to its context. This project represents a profound understanding of site-specific conditions and cultural narratives that give rise to its unique architectural language.

Situated in a vibrant urban environment that thrives on a rich tapestry of history and modernity, this project serves multiple purposes and engages with the surrounding community in meaningful ways. The building functions as a mixed-use development, combining residential spaces with commercial outlets, thereby encouraging a lively street presence and a sense of belonging for both residents and visitors alike. Each segment of the structure has been carefully designed to cater to distinct activities while ensuring a cohesive aesthetic throughout.

The materiality of the project plays a pivotal role in shaping its identity. A carefully curated selection of materials has been employed to reflect both the ecological sensitivity and local context that the architects sought to encapsulate. Prominent materials include sustainably sourced timber, which offers warmth and an organic connection to nature, glass that facilitates natural light and transparency, and reinforced concrete that provides structural integrity while integrating seamlessly with the urban narrative. The interplay of these materials not only enhances the visual appeal but also reinforces the project's commitment to sustainability and durability.

The architectural design is characterized by a series of open, flexible spaces that encourage interaction and collaboration. Large, airy common areas are strategically placed to foster community, while smaller, intimate spaces offer retreats for personal reflection. This balance between communal and private areas manifests the architects’ understanding that contemporary living necessitates a variety of environments to cater to diverse lifestyles. The incorporation of green roofs and living walls exemplifies a commitment to biophilic design, promoting human well-being through direct contact with nature whilst enhancing the building's energy performance and biodiversity.

An innovative approach to the structural framework is evident, emphasizing a modular design that allows for adaptability over time. By utilizing prefabricated elements, the architects have not only optimized construction efficiency but have also minimized waste—an emerging concern within modern architectural practices. This forward-thinking strategy underscores the project’s responsiveness to contemporary issues such as urban density and environmental sustainability, positioning it as a reference point for future developments in similar contexts.

The distribution of spaces is guided by thoughtful planning and zoning principles, where public, semi-public, and private realms are clearly defined yet interconnected. The exterior facade showcases an engaging rhythm of protrusions and recesses, creating visual interest while also serving functional purposes, such as shading and weather protection for outdoor areas. This nuanced consideration highlights a dedication to enhancing the user experience while respecting the urban fabric.

Special emphasis has been placed on the relationship between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. The project incorporates outdoor terraces and communal gardens that serve not only as recreational spaces but also as vital ecological components that contribute to the overall urban ecosystem. By blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments, the design provides a seamless transition for users, engaging them with their surroundings in a dynamic and interactive manner.

Engagement with the local community has culminated in a design that reflects cultural narratives, employing motifs and patterns that resonate with the heritage of the area. This respectful acknowledgment of local history fosters a sense of identity and pride among users and enhances the overall belongingness of the building within its context.

Overall, the comprehensive design approach delivers a multi-faceted architectural outcome that marries function with form, sustainability with aesthetics, and tradition with innovation. The project stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful architecture in shaping human experiences and fostering community connections. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas to gain further insights into this compelling project and appreciate the intricacies involved in its realization. Exploring these elements will undoubtedly provide a broader perspective on the architectural narrative crafted through this design.
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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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