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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Modules Creating Multifunctional Cultural Hubs Along the Trans-Siberian Railway

Author:
Linus Chin Long CHENG
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Modules Creating Multifunctional Cultural Hubs Along the Trans-Siberian Railway

Project in-detail

Constructed using charred wooden shingles and modular timber forms, the design creates an inviting series of cultural hubs that facilitate community engagement along the Trans-Siberian Railway.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Modular layout allows each pit stop to adapt to changing community needs.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Design incorporates local cultural motifs to reflect the heritage of Siberian communities.
05
Bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and offers unique architectural visual interest.

### Project Overview

"Cross-Siberian Odyssey" is situated along the Trans-Siberian Railway and explores the cultural intersections present within this vast Russian landscape. The initiative aims to establish a series of strategically designed "pit stops" that function as cultural hubs for interaction and idea exchange among diverse communities. These spaces are informed by the geographical, historical, and cultural contexts of Siberia, transforming the railway into a vital connector of people and traditions.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The design features an orthogonal framework oriented towards the North, serving as a spatial anchor amidst the surrounding geographical variety. This structure is visually complemented by the rail lines that course through urban areas, creating a dynamic layout punctuated by intersecting paths. The pit stops consist of modular, cube-like forms that enable versatility, accommodating various activities such as markets, workshops, and social gatherings. Each implementation is tailored to reflect local cultural nuances, integrating craftsmanship and artistry from the respective regions.

### Material Selection and Cultural Reflection

The materiality of the project draws upon the local environment and historical context. The use of iron emphasizes the railway's influence while adding texture and character. Timber contributes warmth and fosters a connection to the landscape, while local clay and traditional textiles showcase regional identity through distinctive patterns and motifs. Each material choice supports both the aesthetic vision and the cultural narrative, enhancing the overall user experience while celebrating Siberian heritage.

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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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