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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Frame Structure for Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Dragos Iliescu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Frame Structure for Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles create a distinctive facade that complements a timber frame structure designed for affordable urban housing, emphasizing sustainability and community integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction time and improve sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light intake throughout the day.
04
Designed with modular elements allowing adaptability for future family needs.
05
Includes outdoor balcony spaces that facilitate a seamless connection to nature.
The London Affordable House is a thoughtfully conceived architectural project designed to address the growing need for affordable housing in an increasingly urbanized environment. This design aims to provide a practical solution that balances functionality with aesthetic appeal while promoting sustainability through its material choices and structural configuration. The project represents a progressive response to contemporary housing challenges, particularly in a city like London, where space is limited and demand is high.

At the core of this architectural endeavor is a dual-form structure that reflects modern living needs while maintaining a cost-effective framework. The project is characterized by its efficient use of space, allowing for a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces. The layout promotes community engagement and family-oriented activities, which are significant considerations in contemporary housing design. By prioritizing an open-plan arrangement, the design fosters a sense of connectivity among different living areas, thereby enhancing the overall user experience.

One of the defining aspects of this project is its emphasis on sustainable architecture. The choice of wood as the primary building material highlights this commitment to sustainability, as timber is not only cost-effective but also offers a lower environmental impact compared to traditional concrete structures. The utilization of timber serves various roles throughout the construction, reinforcing both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth. Concrete is likely used in foundational elements to ensure durability, balancing the project’s focus on lightweight materials with the necessary strength to support the structure.

Natural light plays a crucial role in the design, with large glass windows strategically positioned to maximize sunlight penetration. This design choice not only reduces reliance on artificial lighting but also enhances the connection between the interior spaces and the outdoors. The southern orientation of the house ensures that the living spaces receive ample sunlight throughout the day, contributing to energy efficiency and the overall well-being of the occupants.

The architectural expressions within the London Affordable House showcase a clean and geometric aesthetic that resonates with modern architectural trends. The facade, characterized by simple lines and a cohesive color palette comprised of natural wood tones and subtle neutral shades, creates a calming visual experience. Additionally, the incorporation of balcony spaces extends the living area outdoors, facilitating an interaction with the surrounding environment.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in the integration of modular elements that enable adaptability over time. This flexibility allows the structure to respond to the changing needs of its occupants, making it a viable choice for diverse family dynamics. The interplay of flat and sloping rooflines adds an architectural interest while addressing practical aspects, such as rainwater drainage, enhancing the overall design functionality.

In summary, the London Affordable House exemplifies a responsible and innovative approach to contemporary architecture focused on affordable residential solutions. The project effectively merges sustainability, practicality, and aesthetic appeal, presenting a forward-thinking model for urban living.

For those interested in exploring the nuances of this architectural project further, a review of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas will provide valuable insights into the mechanisms that drive this thoughtful housing solution. Engaging with these elements can deepen the understanding of how architecture can address pressing societal needs while maintaining a commitment to design quality.
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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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