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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Brick Crafting Community Living in Sydney

Authors:
Lianna Mclean, Aaron Chen
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Brick Crafting Community Living in Sydney

Project in-detail

Crafted from recycled brick and topped with charred wooden shingles, the design embodies a modular approach that fosters community engagement while providing adaptable residential solutions in Sydney.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of recycled brick throughout the exterior emphasizes sustainability while honoring local architectural heritage.
02
Charred wooden shingles create a distinctive weather-resistant façade that enhances fire safety and aesthetic appeal.
03
A modular layout allows for flexible configurations, enabling residents to customize their living spaces according to their needs.
04
Integrated balcony gardens promote biodiversity and provide private outdoor spaces for residents within an urban setting.
05
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed glass facades, enhancing interior ambiance and reducing energy consumption.
The Checkerboard project stands as a noteworthy example of modern architecture that addresses the pressing need for affordable housing in urban areas, specifically in Sydney. This project represents a thoughtful balance between community engagement and individual privacy, providing a unique solution to contemporary living spaces. Its design fosters a sense of belonging and connection among residents while also promoting sustainability and flexibility in urban housing.

Functionally, the Checkerboard project comprises modular living units including studio apartments and two-bedroom configurations. These distinct unit types are arranged to create a synergistic living environment, where private spaces are integrated with communal areas. The design emphasizes social interaction, with shared courtyards connecting the various units and encouraging residents to engage with one another. This approach not only serves the practical need for housing but also elevates the quality of life for its inhabitants by fostering a sense of community.

The architectural concept is founded on the notion of interconnectivity, both within the living units and in relation to the surrounding urban environment. The arrangement of the modular components reflects a checkerboard pattern, which prevents monotony and promotes diversity in the architectural language of the project. The use of recycled brick, glass facades, and greenery enhances not only the aesthetic appeal but also the environmental performance of the building. These materials were selected deliberately to create a strong connection with the historical context of Sydney while significantly reducing the ecological footprint of the construction.

Among its unique design approaches is the incorporation of balcony gardens, which offer private outdoor spaces that also contribute to the overall green landscape of the development. These gardens provide residents with access to nature and foster biodiversity within the urban setting. Additionally, the project features walkable pathways that facilitate movement throughout the site, creating an inclusive environment where residents can navigate easily between private and public domains.

The integration of natural light is another essential aspect of the Checkerboard project. The positioning of units and the use of expansive glass facades ensure ample daylight reaches the interiors, enhancing the ambiance of the living spaces. This design decision not only improves the residents' overall experience but also promotes energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting.

As a whole, the Checkerboard project is a significant contribution to urban architecture, presenting an adaptable and community-focused living model. Its emphasis on transparency, modularity, and ecological responsibility makes it an important reference point for future housing developments. Readers interested in exploring the deeper architectural insights of this project are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs to understand fully the innovative ideas that underpin this compelling architectural endeavor.
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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
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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