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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Wood Form a Community-Centered Space

Authors:
Ignacio López Lorenzo, Ruben Jimenez Mendez, Alejandro Canino Gutierrez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Wood Form a Community-Centered Space

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles and reclaimed wood, the design creates a harmonious community space that emphasizes sustainability while inviting social interaction among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a distinct texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to a lightweight yet sturdy structural system.
03
The design incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation, promoting resource efficiency.
04
Indoor and outdoor spaces are seamlessly integrated to foster community interaction.
05
A flexible layout allows for easy reconfiguration of communal areas to accommodate various events.
The architectural project at hand is a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context, representing not just a physical structure but a response to the immediate environment and the broader cultural values of the area. Situated in a region characterized by its diverse topography and rich history, this project reflects a careful consideration of the site’s natural elements as well as the lifestyle and needs of its inhabitants.

From the outset, the design embodies a clear understanding of how architecture can serve community functions while promoting sustainable living. The main structure comprises a series of interconnected volumes that encourage interaction among users. These volumes are articulated through a blend of horizontal and vertical elements, creating a dynamic relationship between space and light. Large windows throughout the building not only optimize natural lighting but also establish visual connections to the surrounding landscape, integrating the building seamlessly into its setting.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the design, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and environmental performance. A palette of locally sourced materials, including reclaimed wood, natural stone, and metal cladding, contributes to the building’s sustainability credentials while reflecting its regional identity. The use of reclaimed wood in particular showcases thoughtful consideration of resource efficiency, with the warmth of the material adding an inviting character to the interior spaces. The stone cladding not only serves as a durable exterior finish but also effectively ties the building to the earth, grounding it within the local context.

The functionality of the project is equally noteworthy. Designed to host a variety of community activities, the spaces within the structure are flexible and adaptable, allowing for both private gatherings and larger social events. This adaptability is facilitated by movable partitions that can redefine spatial configurations as needed. The incorporation of outdoor terraces and green spaces enables users to engage with nature, further blurring the line between interior and exterior environments. This connection to nature is particularly vital, as it promotes wellness and enhances the user experience within the architectural setting.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. For instance, the roof structure is designed not only for aesthetic purposes but also to harvest rainwater for irrigation, demonstrating an innovative approach to resource management. Solar panels discreetly integrated into the roofline reflect a commitment to renewable energy sources, making the building more self-sufficient and less reliant on conventional energy consumption. Furthermore, the layout prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that all community members can navigate the spaces with ease, thus fostering inclusivity.

The overall architectural outcome presents a harmonious blend of structure and environment, form and function. It serves as a community landmark that is both timeless and contemporary, catering to the evolving needs of its users while maintaining respect for its historical and environmental context. Each design decision is informed by a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can influence social interaction and community engagement.

For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the architectural design, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and specific design ideas employed in this project will provide valuable insights into the thought processes behind the decisions made. The intricate details and careful considerations that inform this architectural endeavor illustrate how design can facilitate not only shelter but also community connection and sustainability. We invite you to explore the project presentation further to appreciate the full scope of its design and cultural significance.
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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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