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Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in a Communal Urban Habitat

Charred Wooden Shingles and Rainwater Harvesting in a Communal Urban Habitat

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and an efficient rainwater harvesting system, the design creates a sustainable communal living space that redefines urban housing within an underutilized metropolitan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and fire resistance.
02
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural support and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design optimizing spatial dynamics and aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote resource conservation.
05
Creates adaptable communal spaces to foster community engagement and interaction.
House Mutual is an architectural project designed to create a sustainable living environment while fostering community engagement. Situated in an urban context in Thailand, the project effectively utilizes underused spaces, such as areas beneath elevated highways, to provide functional and adaptive housing solutions. The design concept is influenced by principles of mutualism, where the architectural elements are placed in a symbiotic relationship to maximize benefits for both the environment and the community.

Innovative Design Approaches

One of the defining aspects of House Mutual is its response to urban density. The design includes multi-story structures organized around a central communal space, promoting social interaction among residents. This approach addresses the need for communal areas in densely populated environments, thereby enhancing neighborhood cohesion. The upper floors feature large windows, allowing for ample natural light and creating visual links to the surrounding urban landscape, an important consideration in urban architecture.

Flexibility and Adaptability

The layout of House Mutual emphasizes flexibility, with spaces designed to serve multiple purposes. Ground floor areas are allocated for communal activities, while the upper levels can accommodate various living arrangements or small business operations. This multi-functionality is key to the project’s resilience, enabling it to adapt to changing community needs over time.

Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is another critical component that impacts both the aesthetic and functional qualities of House Mutual. The design likely incorporates durable materials such as concrete for structural components and glass for windows, promoting energy efficiency and natural ventilation. Further, the implementation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems underscores the project's commitment to sustainability, allowing it to operate with minimal environmental impact.

Architectural Integration and Community Impact

A significant aspect of this architectural project is the integration of public services with residential structures. By transforming neglected spaces into vibrant communal hubs, House Mutual not only addresses housing needs but also revitalizes its urban setting. The design effectively creates a safe and inviting environment, contributing to the overall reduction of urban crime and fostering a sense of belonging among residents.

Explore the presentation of House Mutual for a comprehensive view of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas. Delving into these details will provide deeper insight into the project’s innovative approach and its potential impact on urban living.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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