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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Envelop a Community Hub Inspired by Nature

Authors:
Ana Rita Rodrigues Gomes, Ricardo Correia Martins
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Timber Envelop a Community Hub Inspired by Nature

Project in-detail

A striking facade of charred wooden shingles and reclaimed timber creates an inviting atmosphere for a multipurpose community hub designed to foster social interaction and local engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facade incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for both structural integrity and sustainable sourcing.
03
The unique bent A-frame design facilitates optimal natural light penetration throughout the interior spaces.
04
Living walls are integrated into the building, promoting biodiversity and improving air quality.
05
A rainwater harvesting system captures runoff, contributing to the building's sustainability efforts.
The architectural project under review presents a thoughtful and well-executed design that highlights the harmonious relationship between structure and environment. This project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture, emphasizing functionality while incorporating aesthetic considerations that respond to the surrounding context. Situated in a carefully chosen geographical location, this design immerses itself into the landscape, engaging with its natural features and urban fabric.

The primary function of this architectural design is to serve as a multipurpose community hub, intended to foster social interaction, collaboration, and cultural engagement. The layout is strategically planned to accommodate various activities, offering spaces that range from meeting rooms and open work areas to social gathering spots and performance venues. The thoughtful articulation of these spaces ensures that users can seamlessly transition between different environments while maintaining a sense of cohesion throughout the building.

One of the essential components of this design is the careful selection of materials. The project employs a combination of sustainable and locally sourced materials, including reclaimed wood, glass, and steel. The use of reclaimed wood serves to evoke a sense of warmth and familiarity, creating inviting interiors that encourage social interaction. The extensive use of glass not only maximizes natural light within the building but also enhances the visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing occupants to appreciate the surrounding landscape. Steel elements provide structural integrity while contributing to the modern aesthetic of the project.

The design approach taken in this architectural project is unique in its consideration of environmental integration. The building's orientation maximizes passive solar gain, minimizing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. Additionally, the incorporation of green roofs and living walls not only supports biodiversity but also enhances insulation. Such sustainable design strategies reflect a growing commitment within contemporary architecture to reduce carbon footprints and promote ecological responsibility.

Details throughout the structure demonstrate a keen attention to craftsmanship and user experience. The choice of color palettes and finishes reflects a contemporary sensibility while also considering the emotional responses elicited by different environments. Large, open spaces are complemented by more intimate nooks, catering to a variety of user preferences. Architectural features such as cantilevered roofs and overhangs provide shelter and shade, further blurring the lines between inside and outside.

Lighting design plays a pivotal role in achieving the desired atmosphere within the hub. By utilizing both natural and artificial lighting thoughtfully, the project emphasizes key architectural features while fostering an environment conducive to work and creativity. The interplay of light and shadow across different surfaces adds depth to the experience of the space, enhancing the overall aesthetic while ensuring practicality.

The architectural designs and ideas presented within this project resonate with a broader commitment to community, sustainability, and modern living. The thoughtful integration of diverse spaces within a unified structure exemplifies a design philosophy focused on facilitating connection and interaction among users. This project not only serves a specific functional need but also embodies a vision for architecture that is deeply rooted in its environment and responsive to the needs of its occupants.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project’s nuances, exploring architectural plans, sections, and further design details can provide invaluable insights into the architectural concepts that shaped this remarkable hub. Delving into these elements illuminates the intention behind the design choices and the overall narrative that this architectural project seeks to convey.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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