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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Brick Embrace Community Living in Sustainable Design

Authors:
Uli Schifferdecker, Daniel Nocker
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Brick Embrace Community Living in Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and reclaimed brick, the design creates an inviting space that fosters community interaction and sustainability within a modern residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while exhibiting a lightweight profile.
03
A bent A-frame design creates a striking visual silhouette while maximizing interior space.
04
Reclaimed brick is used for the façade, reflecting a commitment to sustainable construction practices.
05
Integrated green roofs enhance biodiversity and support local ecosystems within the urban environment.
The project represents a thoughtful embodiment of modern architectural principles, seamlessly integrated into its geographical context. Situated in a vibrant urban area, the design reflects an understanding of both its cultural environment and contemporary lifestyle needs. This architecture serves as a multifunctional space, fostering community interaction while addressing the practical demands of daily living. The focus on sustainability is evident throughout the design, encouraging a lifestyle that harmonizes with the surrounding environment.

The building's façade showcases a careful selection of materials, including concrete, glass, wood, steel, brick, and stone, each chosen for their aesthetic and functional properties. Concrete provides a robust structural framework, while expansive glass panels create visual transparency, inviting natural light into the interiors and visually connecting indoor and outdoor spaces. The warmth of wood is introduced through detailing in fixtures and furniture, striking a balance with the more industrial aspects of concrete and steel. Using reclaimed brick and local limestone reflects a commitment to sustainability and a respect for historical context, grounding the design within its community.

Central to the architectural design is the spatial organization, which prioritizes flexibility and interaction. The open floor plans are designed to accommodate various activities, from casual gatherings to more intimate settings. This adaptability is complemented by strategically placed private areas, ensuring that residents enjoy both communal and individual spaces. The thoughtful placement of service areas minimizes disruption, enhancing the overall flow of the building. Outdoor spaces are also integral to this project, designed to enhance the residents' connection with nature, and encouraging socialization within the community.

Unique design approaches abound in this architecture, particularly in its climate-responsive strategies. Roof overhangs and cantilevered sections not only contribute to the architectural expression but also provide essential shading, enhancing energy efficiency and comfort throughout the year. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, further underscores a commitment to sustainability, ensuring the building’s operation aligns with environmental stewardship.

The design not only meets the functional needs of its occupants but also prioritizes their well-being through light-filled spaces and a strong connection to the exterior environment. Community engagement has been considered at every level, with spaces designed to foster social interaction while maintaining a sense of privacy where necessary. This balance promotes a sense of belonging among residents, bridging the gap between personal and communal living.

Overall, this architectural endeavor exemplifies a coherent vision that marries innovative design with practical utility, all while paying homage to its location's cultural fabric. It stands as an invitation for further exploration, encouraging readers to delve into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas to gain a comprehensive understanding of the project’s full scope. Each element is thoughtfully articulated to reflect a commitment to thoughtful design, sustainability, and community engagement, making it an exemplary model in contemporary architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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