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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Timber Envelop a Community-Centric Cultural Hub

Authors:
Benjamin Jay Shand, Jet Geaghan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Timber Envelop a Community-Centric Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and recycled timber, the design integrates community engagement spaces with artistic facilities, fostering collaboration and creativity in a cultural hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while offering visual interest.
04
Designed to facilitate real-time artistic collaboration between visitors and creators.
05
Integrates lush landscaping to promote biodiversity and environmental integration.
The project “ink” is a thoughtfully designed architectural initiative located in Melbourne, focusing on fostering community interaction through the intersection of art, architecture, and education. The structure serves as a cultural hub aimed at engaging diverse groups, allowing for artistic expression and collaboration. The design promotes openness and accessibility, featuring a combination of galleries, workshops, and social spaces designed for both artists and the public.

The primary function of the project is to facilitate a space where art can be both created and experienced. By blending exhibition areas with working studios, the project emphasizes a participatory approach to art, allowing visitors to engage with the creative process firsthand. The architectural layout incorporates clear sightlines, encouraging visibility between different spaces while promoting a sense of community.

The design features two distinct buildings connected by a central gallery, reinforcing a sense of unity while highlighting individual identities. Each structure is layered with a mix of materials that enhance visual interest and tactile experience. Timber cladding contributes warmth, while glass façades ensure an abundance of natural light and connection to the surrounding environment. Metal components provide structural integrity, and concrete underpins the groundwork.

The spatial organization consists of a basement for storage, a ground floor with communal galleries and social interaction areas, and an upper floor dedicated to workshops and presentations. This arrangement not only serves functional needs but also reflects a well-considered approach to circulation, allowing users to move freely within the space.

The project distinguishes itself through its innovative focus on community and participation in the art-making process. Unlike traditional gallery spaces that often aim for a degree of separation between the art and the audience, the ink project actively dissolves these boundaries. Facilities designed for real-time observation of artistic practices underscore its educational objectives, fostering an environment where learning occurs through engagement and dialogue.

The intentional inclusion of sustainable design principles reinforces the project's relevance in contemporary architectural practices. The use of eco-friendly materials, coupled with landscape integration, demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship. The careful selection of materials like recycled timber and layered glazing further reflects the project's alignment with modern sustainability goals.

For more in-depth insights into this architectural project, readers are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs. These elements provide a comprehensive understanding of its unique architectural ideas and spatial strategies.
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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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