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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Cladding Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Pavel Sovetnikov, Olga Krasova
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Cladding Define a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and complemented by local stone cladding, the design fosters a harmonious blend of sustainability and community engagement within a multifunctional space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create a lightweight yet robust structural framework.
03
An integrated landscape design includes native flora to reduce maintenance and support biodiversity.
04
Strategically placed arched openings optimize natural light and ventilation throughout the interior.
05
The bent A-frame design efficiently channels rainwater and snow, minimizing water accumulation on surfaces.
The VI Towers project represents a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture, seamlessly integrating functionality with aesthetics in a design that reflects its cultural and geographical context. With a vision that emphasizes connectivity, community engagement, and sustainability, this architectural endeavor stands out as a compelling example of how modern structures can harmonize with their environment and serve diverse purposes.

At its core, the project is designed to foster a vibrant community atmosphere while accommodating both residents and visitors. Key components include a hotel with 12 guest rooms, spaces designated for cultural activities, and recreational amenities that cater to various age groups. The layout of the VI Towers fosters interaction, creating opportunities for social engagement and cultural enrichment in a relaxed setting. The open plaza at the center acts as a communal hub, promoting a sense of belonging among users, while the carefully designed pathways encourage exploration and movement through the site.

The architecture of VI Towers is characterized by a series of interrelated blocks that provide varied heights and visual interest. This tiered composition not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also offers functional advantages, with spaces serving different purposes based on their elevation and orientation. Large arched openings throughout the structure create inviting transitions, allowing natural light to flow into interior spaces while offering glimpses of the surrounding landscape. This design promotes a sense of continuity between indoors and outdoors, which is a central theme in creating a comfortable environment for users.

A significant aspect of the project is its thoughtful material selection. Concrete forms the basis of structural integrity, while stone cladding resonates with local building traditions, providing a tactile quality that enriches the facade. Extensive use of glass allows for transparency and connectivity, bridging the gap between interior spaces and the exterior environment, while wood elements introduce warmth and character to the architectural narrative. Each material serves a dual purpose, contributing to both the visual language and the functional performance of the building.

In terms of spatial organization, the design incorporates flexible areas that can adapt to various uses, ensuring longevity and relevance. Recreational facilities such as sports centers, pools, and playgrounds cater to the wellness needs of the community, while commercial spaces like cafes and restaurants enhance the functionality of the site, serving as venues for informal gatherings as well as more structured events.

The VI Towers project embodies a unique design approach through its emphasis on sustainability and cultural resonance. By thoughtfully integrating local materials, the architecture not only respects the traditional vernacular but also contributes to an environmentally conscious framework that prioritizes energy efficiency and resource use. The arrangement of built spaces paired with landscape features ensures that users can enjoy both nature and structure seamlessly, promoting the idea that architecture can positively impact quality of life.

In exploring the nuances of the VI Towers project, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas to fully appreciate the thoughtful considerations woven throughout the development. This project serves as a reminder of the powerful role that architecture can play in shaping community identity and enhancing the everyday experiences of its users. For a more comprehensive understanding of the project, further examination of the architectural details is highly recommended, as they underline the commitment to innovative design while embracing a sense of place and purpose.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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