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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Create Cohesive Community Space

Author:
Paulina Januszkiewicz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Create Cohesive Community Space

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades harmonizing with reinforced concrete, the design fosters a welcoming community hub that embraces both nature and collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light while creating distinctive interior spaces.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems, contributing to environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.
05
Offers community gathering spaces designed for flexibility and multifunctionality to meet diverse user needs.
The architectural project at hand presents a thoughtfully designed structure that embodies a careful balance of form and function, addressing both aesthetic and practical needs. This project represents a modern interpretation of local architectural traditions, integrating contemporary design principles with a respect for the environment and the community. Situated in a distinctive geographical context, the building seamlessly connects with its surroundings, providing a space for interaction, creativity, and functionality.

At its core, this architecture serves multiple functions that cater to diverse user needs, from communal gathering spaces to private areas for reflection and work. The layout of the project is intentionally designed to promote social interaction, with open areas that encourage engagement while still allowing for quiet retreats. The flow of the interior spaces is intuitive, guiding occupants naturally from one area to another, enhancing both usability and experience.

The project's materiality is a fundamental aspect of its design philosophy. A selection of materials has been employed thoughtfully, including reinforced concrete for its structural integrity, glass to maximize light and create transparency, and timber which adds warmth to the interior spaces. These materials not only meet the functional requirements of the architecture but also establish a dialogue with the natural surroundings, ensuring that the building feels both modern and grounded. The careful consideration of local materials is evident in the facade, which integrates stone elements that echo the region's geological features.

Key design components include the entrance, which acts as a welcoming threshold, drawing visitors into the space. The layout emphasizes accessibility, ensuring that all users can navigate the building with ease. Landscaped areas are skillfully woven into the overall design, providing outdoor spaces that complement the indoor environment. Gardens and green features enhance the user experience, offering areas for relaxation and connection with nature.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the incorporation of sustainable practices. Features such as rainwater harvesting systems, solar panels, and green roofs reflect a commitment to environmental responsibility, allowing the building to operate efficiently and reduce its carbon footprint. These elements are integrated into the overall design rather than being added as an afterthought, illustrating a comprehensive approach to sustainability that underscores the project’s relevance in contemporary architecture.

This architecture stands out not merely as a physical structure but as an integral part of the community it serves. It aligns with the needs and desires of its users, fostering a sense of ownership and belonging. The thoughtful design responds not only to the immediate context but also to broader ecological and social considerations, creating a space that is both functional and meaningful.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a detailed examination of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas is recommended. Engaging with these elements will provide a richer understanding of the thought processes and design strategies that informed this architectural endeavor. By delving deeper into the project presentation, readers can appreciate the intricate balance of functionality, materiality, and aesthetics that this architecture embodies.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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