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Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Facades in a Community-Focused Ecosystem Center

Authors:
Rhett Heuer-rubalcava, Ruby Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Facades in a Community-Focused Ecosystem Center

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and translucent facades that blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, the center acts as a community hub that fosters connection and engagement with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that promote sustainability and improve insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
04
Integrates natural water management systems to enhance ecological sensitivity.
05
Promotes community interaction through flexible, multifunctional spaces that can adapt to diverse activities.
The project is a thoughtful architectural design titled "The Knoll," which represents a carefully curated interaction between the built environment and the natural landscapes it inhabits. This architecture is situated within a unique ecological context, drawing inspiration from the geological characteristics of the site. The design aims to create spaces that facilitate a range of activities, engaging visitors with both the architecture and the surrounding environment. It serves not only as a public facility but also as a point of connection to nature, encouraging exploration and reflection.

At its core, "The Knoll" is designed to be multifunctional. The architecture accommodates various programmatic elements, including exhibition spaces, communal areas, cafés, and outdoor terraces. Each of these spaces is crafted to foster community engagement, inviting visitors to interact with one another and the natural world. The organization of spaces flows organically, allowing for ease of circulation while maintaining a sense of continuity with the landscape. The undulating forms of the structure respond to the site's topography, enabling seamless transitions between the interior and exterior.

The materials chosen for "The Knoll" reflect the broader ecological narrative of the project. Reinforced concrete is utilized for structural integrity, allowing for a robust architectural presence. This is complemented by the use of glass, which imbues the design with a sense of lightness and transparency. The glass facades provide stunning visual connections to the surrounding landscapes, allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces while blurring the boundaries between inside and outside. Wood elements are incorporated to enhance the warmth of the environment, creating inviting spaces that resonate with the nearby forest. Metal finishes complete the palette, adding a modern touch that contrasts nicely with the softer materials.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The architects have carefully considered the environmental impact, prioritizing sustainable practices in the design process. The layout promotes passive heating and cooling, making strategic use of natural ventilation to enhance comfort within the building. Rainwater harvesting systems are integrated into the design, reflecting a commitment to ecological stewardship. The project also uses innovative technology to enhance visitor experiences, such as interactive displays that educate users about local ecology and geological features, encouraging deeper connections to the landscape.

The overall aesthetic of "The Knoll" emphasizes fluidity and organic growth. The design integrates seamlessly with the natural contours of the land, suggesting a structure that is not imposed upon the site but rather emerges from it. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and encourages individuals to engage not merely with the architecture but also with the natural beauty surrounding it.

Visitors to "The Knoll" can expect to traverse paths that wind through carefully landscaped areas, allowing for moments of contemplation and connection to nature. Key viewpoints are strategically placed throughout the site, offering glimpses of the expansive natural surroundings while enriching the overall experience of the architecture. This deliberate design strategy creates a sense of discovery, inviting visitors to explore both the functional spaces and the intricate relationships formed between the building and its environment.

In summary, the project reflects a balanced dialogue between architecture and nature. With its strategic material choices, thoughtful design features, and commitment to sustainability, "The Knoll" serves as a model for future projects seeking to harmonize with their ecological contexts. For those interested in a deeper understanding of this project, exploring the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas is highly encouraged. The continued evolution of "The Knoll" promises to both inspire and inform discussions about the role of architecture in our relationship with the natural world.
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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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