Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Textured Concrete Defining a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Remy Sfeir, Mario Al Alam, Jinane Bteich
Charred Wooden Shingles and Textured Concrete Defining a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Combining charred wooden shingles and textured concrete, the design creates a harmonious blend of aesthetics and sustainability within a multipurpose community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design integrates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for their strength and sustainability in construction.
03
A unique bent A-frame structure optimizes natural light and spatial efficiency.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems are incorporated to promote environmental responsibility.
05
Flexible interior spaces adapt to various community needs and events.
The project presents a nuanced exploration of contemporary architecture, marrying functionality with aesthetic sensibilities to create a space that is both practical and visually engaging. Located in a vibrant urban area, the design seeks to respond to its surroundings, fostering a dialogue between the built environment and the community it serves. This architecture represents not only a physical structure but also embodies a set of values related to sustainability, user experience, and contextual relevance.

At its core, the project functions as a multipurpose facility intended to accommodate various activities, ranging from social gatherings to educational initiatives. The design thoughtfully considers the diverse needs of its users, providing adaptable spaces that encourage interaction and collaboration. Open layouts and flexible room configurations allow for seamless transitions between different uses, ensuring that the architecture can evolve alongside the community it supports.

Key elements of the design include a distinct façade characterized by its innovative use of materials. The choice of materials such as textured concrete, expanded metal mesh, and prefabricated timber panels is deliberate, fostering a sense of warmth while ensuring durability. The interplay of these elements creates a tactile experience, encouraging engagement with the structure both visually and physically. Natural light is harnessed through strategically placed windows and skylights, further enhancing the interior atmosphere and promoting energy efficiency.

Unique design approaches are evident in the project's sustainable strategies, which prioritize environmental considerations without compromising aesthetics. A rainwater harvesting system, green roofs, and photovoltaic panels are integrated into the architecture, reflecting a commitment to reducing the carbon footprint and promoting ecological resilience. These elements not only support environmental stewardship but also educate users about sustainability practices, reinforcing the project's role as a community resource.

Landscaping plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall design, with outdoor spaces designed for relaxation and interaction. Garden areas, walking paths, and seating zones invite users to engage with nature, fostering a sense of wellness and community. The thoughtful integration of these outdoor spaces blurs the lines between interior and exterior, encouraging a fluid interaction that enriches the user experience.

The architectural design is characterized by clean lines and a balanced proportion, which contribute to an overall sense of harmony. The spatial organization flows intuitively, guiding visitors through the various areas of the facility while maintaining a sense of discovery. The use of color is also considered; subtle hues enhance the natural light and contribute to a calming environment that contrasts with the bustling urban context outside.

This project exemplifies a modern architectural approach that transcends mere functionality, embodying a vision that enriches the lives of its users and serves the wider community. It stands as a testament to the possibilities that exist when thoughtful design meets conscientious planning. By effectively addressing the needs of the community, the architecture solidifies its role as a vital hub for engagement and learning.

For those interested in delving deeper into the nuances of this project, it is advisable to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs that detail the innovative ideas behind this thoughtful approach to design. Review of these elements will provide additional insights into how the project integrates its conceptual framework with practical execution, ultimately enriching our understanding of contemporary architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy