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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Create a Seismic Resilient Vertical Community

Author:
Xiahua Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Create a Seismic Resilient Vertical Community

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and a robust reinforced concrete structure, the design offers a sophisticated solution to seismic resilience while seamlessly integrating residential, commercial, and green spaces into a cohesive urban community.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building incorporates a vertical garden within its structure, enhancing urban biodiversity and resident engagement with nature.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, providing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
An advanced elevator technology reduces energy consumption by 50%, optimizing vertical transportation within the high-rise.
04
The design features a unique bent A-frame structure, allowing for increased natural light and panoramic views.
05
Reinforced concrete forms the core of the building, ensuring durability and resilience against seismic activity.
The architectural project under analysis presents a multifaceted skyscraper located in Japan, designed with the objective of addressing various urban challenges while enriching the living experience of its inhabitants. This building harmonizes residential, commercial, and public spaces, creating a vertical community that respects the surrounding environment, particularly the iconic backdrop of Mount Fuji. The architecture symbolizes a forward-looking response to the increasing density of urban areas, showcasing how innovative design can meet practical needs while fostering a connection with nature.

Functionally, the skyscraper serves multiple purposes, integrating housing, workspaces, healthcare facilities, and recreational areas into a single structure. By organizing these components vertically, the design maximizes land use efficiency, which is essential in urban environments where space is often at a premium. The lower levels of the building are dedicated to residential apartments, offering comfortable living spaces with easy access to essential services such as a hospital and shops. Above these, commercial offices occupy strategic levels, allowing businesses to benefit from stunning views and abundant natural light—both of which are vital for promoting productivity and well-being.

One of the essential features of the project is the inclusion of a green garden area within the building. This green space not only provides a place for relaxation and social interaction but also serves as a critical element of sustainable design. The integration of vegetation into the architectural plan reinforces the idea of bringing nature into the urban fabric, fostering biodiversity while promoting the mental and physical health of the residents and workers alike.

The approach to the design uniquely addresses the seismic challenges typical in this region. The building employs reinforced concrete and a steel framework to ensure structural integrity, allowing it to withstand potential earthquakes. Additionally, the skyscraper features an innovative elevator system designed to operate efficiently, reducing energy consumption significantly. This technology not only enhances accessibility for residents and visitors but also sets a precedent for future developments in tall building architecture.

The visual design of the skyscraper reflects a contemporary aesthetic, with a cylindrical form that stands in elegant contrast to the rugged landscape of Mount Fuji. This thoughtful design choice emphasizes the relationship between the built and natural environments, inviting occupants to appreciate their surroundings. The glass facades enhance this connection by allowing natural light to permeate the interior, creating open and inviting spaces within.

The project stands out for its commitment to sustainability and community integration, setting a new standard for urban living. It embodies architectural ideas that prioritize not just functionality but also the quality of life for its occupants. As such, it serves as a living laboratory for possible innovations in healthy urban living.

Readers interested in exploring the details of this architectural proposal are encouraged to delve into the project presentation to uncover various architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the depth of thought and design considerations involved. The architectural innovations presented here offer a valuable insight into how thoughtful design can shape not only buildings but also communities and urban environments at large.
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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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