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 Reinforced Concrete Form a Dynamic Community Hub

Author:
Wentao Guo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Form a Dynamic Community Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and reinforced concrete, the community hub seamlessly integrates natural elements and modern design to create a vibrant space for collaboration and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that reduce carbon footprint and improve structural efficiency.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces and optimize natural lighting.
04
Seamlessly integrates native landscaping to promote biodiversity and minimize maintenance.
05
Prioritizes adaptable spaces to serve various community functions effectively.
The architectural project at hand is a thoughtful fusion of modern design principles and functional requirements, situated within the context of its geographical location. This building represents not just a physical structure but a conceptual space that reinforces the relationship between the occupants and their environment. The architects have successfully navigated the complexities of site, climate, and community needs to create a design that is both practical and expressive.

At its core, the project has been developed to serve multiple functions, addressing the needs of the users while adhering to principles of sustainability and efficiency. The design seamlessly accommodates a variety of activities, ensuring versatility and adaptability within its spaces. The layout promotes collaboration and interaction, showcasing an understanding of contemporary social dynamics. Large, open spaces encourage communal activities, while discrete areas provide privacy for individual tasks, reflecting an intelligent balance that enhances the user experience.

Attention to detail is prominent throughout the project within both the exterior and interior elements. The façade, constructed primarily from reinforced concrete, exhibits a sleek profile that effortlessly integrates with the surrounding landscape. Large expanses of low-emissivity glass are employed intermittently, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors while minimizing thermal loss. This choice is indicative of a thoughtful approach to energy efficiency, as it reduces reliance on artificial lighting and creates a welcoming environment.

The incorporation of sustainable timber adds warmth and texture to the design. This material choice not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also speaks to the project’s commitment to utilizing locally sourced and environmentally conscious materials. This selection reflects a key design philosophy, enhancing the building's connection to the local context. In addition to wood, galvanized steel is utilized for structural support, ensuring the integrity of the building while maintaining a streamlined appearance.

Landscaping around the project has been carefully curated to enhance its functionality and visual appeal, using native plants that require minimal maintenance and irrigation. Such choices amplify the connection between the building and its site, reinforcing ecological principles while providing a serene refuge amidst urban density. This integration of nature into the architectural framework adds another layer of complexity to the overall design, thereby enriching the occupants’ experience and fostering a sense of community.

Leapfrogging conventional architectural ideas, the design incorporates innovative spatial configurations that challenge typical layouts. The flow between indoor and outdoor spaces is well considered, facilitating natural ventilation and creating inviting transitions. Terraces that overlook communal gardens serve not only as recreational areas but as thoughtful extensions of the living environment, encouraging outdoor interaction. These features reflect an understanding of how architectural design can influence lifestyle and well-being.

The internal spaces are designed to prioritize functionality, with flexible partitions that allow users to adapt the environment according to their needs. This concept of adaptability is increasingly relevant, particularly in an age where multipurpose spaces are favored. The design enhances productivity and comfort by providing distinct zones that cater to various activities, from collaborative work to solitary reflection.

Throughout the project, careful consideration has been given to lighting, acoustic treatment, and thermal comfort, ensuring a holistic approach to the user experience. Natural light is harnessed not only to illuminate spaces but to create a dynamic atmosphere that changes throughout the day. In contrast, acoustic panels are discreetly integrated to manage sound within busy areas, enabling effective communication and concentration.

This architectural project is a commendable example of how thoughtful design can enhance function while respecting the environment. By harmonizing practical needs with innovative design approaches, the project serves as a benchmark for future developments. To explore this project further, readers are encouraged to review detailed presentations that include architectural plans, sections, and studies that provide insight into the vision and execution of this comprehensive design endeavor. Engaging with these materials will offer a deeper appreciation of the architectural ideas that underpin this remarkable project.
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