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Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Glazing in a Versatile Community Hub

Authors:
Francesco Corvino, Maria Valentina Cosani
Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Glazing in a Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

Blending charred wooden shingles with expansive thermal glazing, the building creates an inviting, energy-efficient environment that serves as a dynamic community hub for various local activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates thermal glazing to enhance energy efficiency while maximizing natural light.
02
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles, promoting sustainable construction practices.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Offers flexible interior spatial arrangements to accommodate a variety of community activities.
05
Integrates green roofs and vertical gardens to enhance biodiversity and improve air quality.
The project at hand embodies an innovative approach to contemporary architecture, seamlessly merging functionality with aesthetic appeal. This architectural design serves as a multifaceted space, tailored to fulfill various community needs while maintaining a dialogue with its environmental context. The overall concept hinges on creating an accessible and inclusive environment, reflecting a commitment to sustainability, interaction, and modern living.

The architecture exemplifies a thoughtful interplay of space and light, utilizing expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor realms. This design decision not only enhances natural illumination but also fosters a direct connection with the surrounding landscape. The careful placement of windows allows for panoramic views while optimizing energy efficiency through the use of thermal glazing, which minimizes heat loss during colder months and reduces solar gain in the summer. This aspect of the design is essential, as it embodies the project's ethos of environmental sensitivity.

The project's exterior showcases a harmonious blend of materials that speaks to both durability and visual appeal. Notable materials include reinforced concrete, which provides structural integrity and resilience; timber cladding, which brings warmth and a tactile quality; and glass elements that encapsulate transparency and openness. The use of local materials is significant, not only enhancing sustainability by reducing transportation emissions but also anchoring the project within its geographical context. Each material is meticulously selected to contribute to the architectural narrative, reinforcing the unity between the building and its setting.

Functionally, the space accommodates various activities, including community gatherings, exhibitions, and commercial interactions. The layout is thoughtfully designed to facilitate circulation and encourage social engagement, with open-plan areas promoting a fluid movement from one functional zone to another. Flexibility is a key element of the design, allowing for easily reconfigurable spaces that can adapt to varying user needs.

Unique design approaches are highlighted through various architectural features integrated into the project. For instance, the inclusion of green roofs and vertical gardens introduces biophilic design principles, fostering a connection to nature within urban landscapes. These elements not only enhance the aesthetic quality but also contribute to biodiversity and improve air quality in the area. Additionally, rainwater harvesting systems and energy-efficient HVAC systems underline the commitment to environmental stewardship, ensuring that the project remains resource-efficient over time.

The project stands out for its earnest reflection on community engagement throughout its design process. Efforts were made to involve local stakeholders in discussions, ensuring that the architecture serves the actual needs of the residents. This inclusive approach demonstrates a shift in architectural practice, recognizing the importance of user-centric design in contemporary projects.

Exploring the architectural plans surrounding this project reveals intricate details regarding spatial organization and circulation patterns, while the architectural sections provide insights into the building's volumetric relationships. The architectural designs illustrate how the interplay of spaces is engineered to enhance both social interaction and user experience within the environment.

For those who are drawn to exploring innovative architectural ideas and how they can be implemented in real-world contexts, reviewing the finer details of this project can offer valuable insights. The craftsmanship, thoughtfulness, and creativity present in every aspect of the design merit further exploration to appreciate the architectural richness embedded in this endeavor.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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