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Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Energy Solutions for Flexible Urban Living

Authors:
Pablo Larroulet, Toni Cremades villanueva
Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Energy Solutions for Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and mass timber for enhanced insulation, this innovative development redefines urban living by providing adaptable housing solutions designed for diverse communal interactions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that enhance durability while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a flexible A-frame design that allows for various interior configurations.
04
Integrates solar panels seamlessly into the roof structure for renewable energy generation.
05
Includes community gardens for residents to promote sustainable practices and social interaction.
The project represents a thoughtful approach to contemporary architectural design, focusing on the principle of adaptability. This initiative seeks to address the pressing need for housing in urban environments, particularly in regions like Chile where socio-economic challenges are compounded by rapid urban growth. The design aims to provide flexible living spaces that can cater to a variety of occupants, from individuals seeking a compact living solution to families in need of larger accommodations.

At its core, this architectural project emphasizes modularity, allowing for a range of configurations that can easily be modified to suit specific user requirements. The use of modular components not only facilitates varied spatial arrangements but also encourages efficiency in construction, reducing both time and costs associated with the building process. Each module is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, combining practicality with a thoughtful design ethos.

The project incorporates several significant elements that define its character and functionality. The basic module serves as the foundation for the entire residential unit, measuring between 6.25 to 40 square meters. This compact size promotes efficient use of space and energy while offering enough room for essential amenities. Each unit is designed to support both private and communal living, with clear distinctions between personal areas such as bedrooms and kitchens, and shared spaces meant for social interaction and collaboration. This layout supports the contemporary trend of communal living and facilitates a sense of community among residents.

A distinctive feature of the design is its robust structural system. The roofing options include traditional deck roofs for recreational spaces, green roofs that enhance insulation and promote local biodiversity, and solar panel installations that harness renewable energy. These elements contribute to the project's sustainability goals, reducing environmental impact while creating a comfortable living atmosphere.

Materiality plays a crucial role in both the durability and the visual appeal of the project. The design utilizes mass timber for structural integrity, promoting a natural aesthetic while ensuring excellent acoustical performance. Zinc is chosen for the facade due to its resilience and low maintenance requirements. Additionally, composite materials are employed, particularly for flooring and other structural components, giving flexibility and longevity to the design. The incorporation of green roofing systems and water collection features demonstrates a commitment to environmental stewardship, reinforcing the project’s overarching goals of sustainability and self-sufficiency.

One of the project’s strongest attributes is its emphasis on community engagement. By integrating communal gardens and composting areas, it encourages residents to participate actively in creating a sustainable lifestyle. This unique design approach fosters social connections, allowing for interactions among neighbors and creating a supportive living environment. Moreover, the adaptability inherent in this design invites residents to personalize their spaces, enhancing their sense of ownership and satisfaction.

This architectural endeavor is characterized by its holistic perspective on housing solutions, focusing on multiple aspects such as environmental sustainability, social interaction, and user adaptability. By addressing contemporary housing challenges through innovative design approaches, this project stands as a model for future residential developments in urban settings and beyond.

For those interested in further exploring the nuances of this architectural design, examining elements like architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the functionalities and innovative approaches integrated into the project. Delve into the full presentation of this architectural project to appreciate its comprehensive design and the thoughtful considerations it offers for modern living in urban contexts.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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