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Charred Wooden Shingles and Staggered Units in a Community Living Space

Authors:
Huang Jiadil, Kerui Jiang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Staggered Units in a Community Living Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a staggered unit layout, this residential development merges cultural heritage with contemporary living, promoting both privacy and community interaction for technology professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates staggered units resembling the mechanics of traditional Kong ming locks.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Designed with communal terraces that encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Features large openings for natural light, optimizing energy efficiency and comfort.
The Kong Ming Lock Home represents a contemporary approach to residential architecture that balances privacy and community engagement. This project is inspired by traditional Chinese Kong ming locks, utilizing a design that interconnects individual living spaces while promoting social interaction among residents. The architectural composition consists of staggered, interlocking units that form a cohesive structure, allowing natural light and ventilation throughout the building.

The primary function of the Kong Ming Lock Home is to provide comfortable and functional living spaces for technology professionals. Each unit is equipped with essential amenities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and workspaces, creating an environment conducive to both personal productivity and communal living. The strategic arrangement of these units allows for distinct private areas, while central communal spaces encourage collaboration and socialization.

Innovative Staggered Units
One of the key aspects of the Kong Ming Lock Home is its staggered unit arrangement that mimics the mechanics of the Kong ming lock. This design creates a visually interesting façade while maximizing the usable space and enhancing privacy for each resident. The interlocking blocks provide not only aesthetic appeal but also functional openings that allow for outdoor views and natural light, fostering a connection to the surrounding environment.

Sustainable Community Living
The design of the Kong Ming Lock Home promotes sustainability through shared living practices. Communal areas include lounges and terraces that facilitate interaction without compromising individual privacy. This architectural strategy encourages resource sharing among residents and establishes a sense of community. The material choices, including concrete for structural components, glass for transparency, and wood accents for warmth, further demonstrate a commitment to a comfortable, lasting living environment.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Kong Ming Lock Home, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate the thoughtful approach taken in this unique residential project.
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MICROHOME
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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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