Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Concrete Create a Balanced Urban Sanctuary

Author:
Mohsin Khokhar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Concrete Create a Balanced Urban Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and recycled concrete, the design creates a sustainable urban retreat that fosters community interaction and provides versatile spaces for social gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while maintaining a compact footprint.
04
Utilizes solar-optimized glazing to enhance energy performance and reduce heating costs.
05
Incorporates a green roof that promotes biodiversity and helps with stormwater management.
The architectural design project under analysis presents a thoughtful exploration of space, function, and materiality, resulting in a cohesive structure that reflects contemporary design sensibilities while meeting the practical needs of its intended users. Located in an urban setting, the project embodies a harmonious blend of form and function, creating an environment that encourages interaction and engagement.

The primary representation of this design is its commitment to sustainability and community integration. By considering the environmental context, the architects have crafted a space that not only serves its function but also respects and enhances its surroundings. The project satisfies essential architectural requirements, including aesthetic appeal, structural integrity, and user comfort, while promoting social connectivity.

A fundamental element of the project is its layout, which maximizes both natural light and airflow. This design approach promotes environmental efficiency and contributes to the overall well-being of its occupants. Large windows and strategically placed openings allow for ample daylight penetration, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day and fostering a sense of openness. The internal circulation is intuitively designed, leading users through spaces that encourage exploration and interaction, thus enhancing the user experience.

The choice of materials plays a pivotal role in the architectural language of the project. A diverse palette of materials has been meticulously selected, including exposed concrete, sustainably sourced wood, and high-performance glass. These materials not only contribute to the visual identity of the building but also align with the principles of durability and sustainability. The use of concrete offers structural robustness while providing thermal mass, aiding in energy efficiency. Wood elements introduce warmth and tactility, creating a welcoming atmosphere indoors. The glass facades not only promote transparency but also facilitate a visual connection between the interior and the exterior, dissolving the boundaries between inside and outside.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the way communal spaces have been articulated. The architects have focused on creating interactive zones that encourage socialization and collaboration. These areas, designed with flexibility in mind, can adapt to accommodate various activities, from informal gatherings to organized events. This adaptability ensures that the space remains relevant and functional for a diverse user group over time.

Attention to detail is apparent in the finishes and furnishings, which have been selected to complement the architectural concept and enhance the overall user experience. The thoughtful integration of artwork and landscaping around the building serves to enrich the environment and reinforce the connection between the structure and its site. Outdoor spaces have been carefully designed to extend the usable area of the building, providing serene spots for relaxation and contemplation amidst the urban environment.

In addition to its aesthetic and functional attributes, the architectural project demonstrates a strong understanding of cultural context. By reflecting local traditions and incorporating elements that resonate with the community, the design fosters a sense of belonging and pride among its users. The project's ability to adapt to the local identity while incorporating modern architectural ideas highlights the architects' skill in navigating complex design challenges.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of this architectural project further, a review of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the innovative thinking and attention to detail that have shaped this outstanding work. The ideas within this project represent not only a response to contemporary architectural demands but also an invitation to engage with the built environment in meaningful ways.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy