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Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Frameworks Redefining Urban Living Above Railway Corridors

Authors:
German Arismendi, Tamara Corts, Gonzalo Acuña
Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Frameworks Redefining Urban Living Above Railway Corridors

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a robust steel framework, the design elevates modular housing above railway corridors, effectively addressing urban housing needs while optimizing space and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are designed for easy adaptability to various resident needs.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability.
03
The project integrates communal gardens directly above railway infrastructure.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels optimize construction speed and sustainability.
05
The bent A-frame design effectively mitigates noise from nearby railways.
The project in discussion focuses on a modular housing initiative in London, aimed at addressing the growing demand for affordable residential units in densely populated urban areas. This architectural undertaking seeks to enhance the integration of housing options into the existing urban fabric, utilizing available spaces above and near railway corridors. The design promotes community engagement and sustainable living through strategically planned layouts and material choices.

### Modular Design and Spatial Efficiency
A key characteristic of this project is its modular design strategy, which allows for versatile living arrangements tailored to various resident needs. The housing units include loft apartments, duplexes, and adaptable modular components, catering to singles, families, and shared living scenarios. This approach optimizes space usage and promotes functionality while allowing for potential future modifications. The layout integrates communal spaces and green roofs, facilitating a sense of community and interaction among residents. Such elements are significant in urban settings where open space is often limited.

### Integration with Urban Landscape
The project stands out due to its contextual integration with London's existing urban landscape. By utilizing the infrastructure of railway corridors, the design minimizes the footprint on already developed areas, allowing for the preservation of historical structures and maximizing land use efficiency. The use of materials such as steel, glass, wood, and concrete provides durability and aesthetic appeal while ensuring that the development remains in harmony with surrounding architectural styles. The design not only enhances the visual narrative of the area but also addresses acoustic and environmental challenges posed by urban living.

Investigating architectural plans and sections reveals the thoughtful consideration given to light penetration and sound insulation, essential for residential comfort in proximity to active rail lines. The inclusion of shared outdoor areas and community gardens emphasizes the project's commitment to fostering a communal living experience, vital in densely populated environments.

Overall, this project serves as an innovative response to the urban housing crisis in London, focusing on sustainability, community-oriented design, and appropriate materiality. To explore the architectural designs and ideas further, readers are encouraged to review the detailed project presentation, including architectural sections and plans, for deeper insights into the thoughtful execution of this initiative.
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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
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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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