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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Steel Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Sophie Angrilli, Silvia Angeli
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Steel Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and reclaimed steel, this multifaceted community hub seamlessly blends sustainable materials with innovative design to create spaces for social interaction, recreation, and urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates vertical gardens to support urban biodiversity and mental well-being.
05
Includes community spaces designed for multifunctional use and social interaction.

The project presents a contemporary architectural design that emphasizes functionality, sustainability, and community engagement. Located in an urban setting, the structure serves as a multifaceted community hub, integrating residential, commercial, and recreational spaces into a cohesive environment. The design aims to enhance the quality of life for its users while promoting social interaction and environmental responsibility.

The architectural approach is characterized by a careful consideration of site context and user needs. With an emphasis on natural light and ventilation, the building features large windows and open floor plans that promote a sense of openness and connectivity. The layout is designed to facilitate movement between different areas, encouraging both collaboration and solitude as required by users.

The materiality of the project plays a significant role in its overall aesthetic and functional performance. A combination of sustainable materials such as reclaimed wood, recycled steel, and high-performance glass not only contributes to the building's environmental goals but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. These materials are selected not just for their ecological benefits but also for their durability and low maintenance needs, ensuring the longevity of the project.

The design stands out due to its unique approach to integrating green spaces within the urban fabric. Roof gardens, vertical gardens, and landscaped terraces offer residents and visitors the opportunity to engage with nature, promoting mental well-being and biodiversity in a predominantly urban environment. This innovative use of landscaping within the building’s design exemplifies how architecture can respond to ecological challenges and enhance urban life.

The building incorporates several key design features that enhance its functionality and aesthetic appeal. Large communal spaces are strategically placed to encourage social gatherings, while smaller, private areas are designed for individual reflection and study. Additionally, the arrangement of spaces reflects a balance between public and private realms, facilitating interaction without compromising personal privacy.

The project prioritizes energy efficiency through smart design strategies, such as passive solar heating, natural ventilation, and efficient insulation. These features significantly reduce the building's reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, leading to lower operational costs and environmental impact.

For professionals and enthusiasts interested in the architectural details, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. Reviewing architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful design process that underpins this project. Such evaluations can enhance understanding of its unique offerings and its contribution to contemporary architectural practice.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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