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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Design in a Coastal Community Center

Authors:
Juan jose Lopez, Juan felipe Castiblanco cespedes, Maria Wiesner
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Design in a Coastal Community Center

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates seamlessly with its coastal environment to serve as a multifunctional community center that fosters local engagement and connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and reduce maintenance in a coastal setting.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to promote efficient water management.
05
Offers multi-level terraces that create seamless connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The "Weaved Mangrove" architectural project presents a compelling integration of built environment and ecological systems. Situated along the Pacific coast of Colombia, the design enhances the local landscape while fulfilling multiple community functions. The structure draws inspiration from mangrove ecosystems, characterized by their resilient root systems and adaptive nature, and employs these elements to inform its form and organization.

The project embodies a holistic approach to architecture, merging aesthetics with functionality. It creates spaces that serve both the public and private sectors, encouraging community engagement and environmental awareness. The design emphasizes open areas for social interaction and private zones that ensure comfort and privacy.

Unique Design Approaches

A key feature of the "Weaved Mangrove" project is its biomimetic design approach. The form replicates the verticality of mangrove trees while maintaining stability through a wider base, which counteracts environmental forces such as wind and water. The spatial arrangement allows for multi-level terraces that connect users with the landscape, promoting a sense of community.

Material selection plays a significant role in the project's identity. Wood, steel, glass, and stone comprise the main materials, chosen for their sustainability and integration into the environment. Wood not only resonates with the surrounding natural elements but also adds warmth to the design. The steel framework provides structural integrity, while glass facilitates natural light, creating a transparent connection to the outdoors. Stone-based facades provide a grounding effect and reflect local geological features.

Architectural Functionality

Functional spaces throughout the project are designed to accommodate a variety of uses. Ground-level areas cater to community services, potentially including retail or gathering spaces that foster interaction. Upper levels are intended for residential use, ensuring a diverse mix of activities within the structure. Each stage of the design promotes fluid movement throughout the building, supporting a vibrant community atmosphere.

Considerations such as natural ventilation and rainwater harvesting systems enhance the building's sustainability. These design choices address both the local climate and the need for resource efficiency. The interplay of functional and sustainable aspects highlights the project's goal of fostering a resilient architectural identity.

For more in-depth insights on the architectural plans and sections, as well as the underlying design ideas that shaped the "Weaved Mangrove" project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of how the project stands out in the context of contemporary architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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