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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Author:
Gareth Marriott
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Framework Define Sustainable Urban Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a framework of timber, creating a distinctive facade that fosters community engagement through flexible living spaces in an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive visual texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and sustainability.
03
Flexible living units can adapt to various family structures and needs.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems support environmental efficiency.
05
Community courtyards are designed to foster social interactions among residents.

The Kitchen Living project is an architectural endeavor focused on creating a livable community space in an urban environment. Situated in San Francisco, this project emphasizes communal living and sustainable practices, integrating design elements that foster social interactions and adaptability. The central theme revolves around the kitchen as a pivotal area for both nourishment and community engagement, reflecting contemporary lifestyle needs within urban settings.

The project consists of multiple clusters of residential units that promote a sense of community while allowing for privacy. Each cluster features shared amenities, including communal dining areas and gardens that serve as gathering spaces for residents. This approach encourages community-building through organic interactions, integrating living spaces designed for collaborative and individual use.

Innovative Spatial Planning
The Kitchen Living project utilizes innovative spatial planning techniques to differentiate itself from typical housing developments. By arranging living units in clusters, the design maximizes social interaction while maintaining private living spaces. The layout includes flexible dwelling types, enabling families of varying sizes to inhabit the same community without compromising individual needs. This versatility reflects changing family dynamics and urban shifts, making the project relevant to a broad demographic.

Sustainability is a key characteristic of this project. The choice of materials, such as timber and recycled components, is carefully considered to minimize the environmental impact. The use of energy-efficient systems and natural light reduces the overall energy consumption of the buildings. Moreover, features such as rainwater harvesting enhance the sustainable approach, reinforcing the commitment to environmentally friendly design practices.

Functional Integration of Communal Spaces
Communal spaces are integrated into the design to enhance the living experience. The kitchen serves as the focal point where residents can gather, share meals, and participate in community activities. The presence of shared gardens and open courtyards encourages residents to engage with nature and fosters a sense of belonging. This functional integration of communal areas distinguishes Kitchen Living from conventional residential projects, where individual units often lack connectivity to broader community frameworks.

The project consists of timber frame construction, utilizing materials that reflect a sustainable ethos while providing durability. Each unit's design allows for adjustments, catering to evolving lifestyles, ensuring long-term adaptability. The architectural approach taken here not only addresses immediate housing needs but also positions the project as a model for future developments that prioritize community and sustainability.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs in more detail, it is encouraged to review the full project presentation. The Kitchen Living project stands as a practical illustration of contemporary architectural ideas that align living spaces with the needs of modern urban dwellers.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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