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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Create a Versatile Urban Gathering Space

Author:
Ze Chun Mok
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Create a Versatile Urban Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and reclaimed timber, the design creates a welcoming urban hub that fosters community engagement and versatility through adaptable spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce construction waste.
03
Features a flexible interior layout with movable partitions to accommodate various community functions.
04
Integrates greenery with rooftop gardens and green walls to improve air quality and promote biodiversity.
05
Employs smart lighting systems that adjust based on natural light, optimizing energy use.
The project under analysis represents a thoughtful synthesis of form and function in contemporary architecture. Located in a vibrant urban setting, it serves as a multifunctional space that accommodates a variety of community needs. This design acknowledges its geographical context and strives to enhance the local environment while providing a welcoming atmosphere for its users.

At the heart of this architectural endeavor is a commitment to sustainability and community connectivity. The building is conceived as a hub for social interaction, offering spaces that can host events, workshops, and daily activities. This intentional programming reflects the designers' vision of fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging social engagement. The layout of the project is organized around a central atrium, which serves as a focal point and a connective element for the various functions housed within. This atrium is designed to function as both an indoor gathering area and a passageway, allowing natural light to flood the interior and providing visual connections to the surrounding environment.

The materiality of the building plays a crucial role in its overall aesthetic and functional performance. A careful selection process prioritizes sustainable materials, including reclaimed wood, exposed concrete, and glass, which not only resonate with the project's ecological objectives but also provide a warm and inviting atmosphere. The use of reclaimed wood fosters a connection to the past, invoking a sense of history while promoting responsible sourcing practices. The exposed concrete contributes to the raw, industrial feel of the design, establishing a dialogue with the urban context. Large glass panels enhance transparency, allowing visual interaction between the interior spaces and the exterior environment and blurring the lines between inside and outside.

Architecturally, the project employs a unique design approach characterized by its adaptability and flexibility. Spaces are designed to be multipurpose, with movable partitions that allow for the reconfiguration of layouts based on user needs. This flexibility is particularly beneficial in a community-focused design, where the requirements of users may vary greatly throughout the day or through different events. The thoughtful integration of technology within the design enhances the user experience, providing features such as smart lighting systems that adjust based on occupancy and natural light levels.

Landscaping elements are harmoniously incorporated into the overall design, emphasizing outdoor accessibility and inviting interaction with nature. Green walls and rooftop gardens complement the building’s sustainability goals while creating serene environments for relaxation and community gatherings. These spaces not only improve air quality but also encourage biodiversity, creating a small ecosystem within the urban landscape.

The unique design strategies employed in this project address not only the immediate architectural challenges but also the broader social and environmental contexts. The eco-conscious approach, combined with a focus on creating communal spaces, sets this project apart as a significant contribution to contemporary architecture. By prioritizing engagement, sustainability, and user experience, the design reflects a modern understanding of architecture's role in society.

For those interested in diving deeper into the architectural nuances of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. An examination of these elements will provide valuable insights into the careful planning and innovative ideas that underpin this thoughtful architectural endeavor.
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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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