Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Glass Unite in a Sustainable Urban Hub

Author:
Barbara Valverde Filgueiras
Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Glass Unite in a Sustainable Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design merges sustainability with community engagement in a central urban hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and improve insulation.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes structural integrity and interior space.
04
Integrates vertical gardens to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Includes flexible community spaces that adapt to various events and activities.
The project under analysis presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, specifically focusing on the interplay between functionality and aesthetics in urban settings. It stands as a testament to innovative architectural design that harmonizes with its environment while addressing various user needs. Situated in a vibrant urban context, the building exemplifies how architecture can respond to both social functions and the unique character of its location.

The design of the project is centered around a multifaceted purpose. It serves as a community hub, offering spaces for social interaction, recreation, and cultural activities. This multifunctionality is a significant aspect of the project, as it not only accommodates diverse activities but also fosters a sense of belonging and community engagement. The layout is strategically organized to facilitate movement and interaction, with open spaces encouraging gatherings and events while private areas offer retreats for individual reflection or small group discussions.

In examining the architectural features, one notes the thoughtful consideration of materiality. The project employs a combination of sustainable building materials, enhancing its ecological footprint and emphasizing durability. The primary materials used include exposed concrete, natural wood, glass, and metal finishes, each selected to resonate with the surrounding architecture. The exposed concrete adds an industrial character while offering thermal mass, whereas natural wood introduces warmth and tactile appeal. Expansive glass facades invite natural light, establishing a connection between the indoor environment and the outdoor landscape. The meticulous arrangement of these materials delineates distinct zones within the building, providing both cohesion and contrast.

A significant aspect of this project is its unique design approach, which emphasizes integration with the surrounding environment. The building is thoughtfully positioned to maximize views and natural light while minimizing its impact on nature. Green roofs and vertical gardens are incorporated within the design, which not only enhance biodiversity but also improve the overall aesthetic, creating a pleasing visual experience for inhabitants and visitors alike. This attention to sustainability extends to energy-efficient systems integrated throughout the project, including passive heating and cooling strategies that reduce reliance on mechanical systems.

The architectural plans reveal a careful balance between public and private spaces. The ground floor is designed for accessibility, with open areas that draw people in, featuring amenities like cafes and community rooms. Ascending through the building, the design transitions to more private and specialized areas, such as studios and workshop spaces, allowing for both collaboration and focused work. This thoughtful layering of spaces offers versatility, accommodating various user needs and enabling an adaptive use of the facility over time.

Moreover, the architectural sections provide insights into the spatial dynamics that play a crucial role in how the building is experienced. High ceilings in communal areas create an air of openness, while more intimate, smaller spaces encourage connection and comfort. The interplay of light and shadow, orchestrated by skillful window placement and material choices, further enriches the user experience throughout the day, enhancing the overall ambiance of the environment.

In exploring the architectural ideas manifested in this project, there is a clear commitment to fostering community interaction and celebrating local culture. The design subtly pays homage to the heritage of the location, integrating elements reminiscent of traditional architecture, while simultaneously embracing modernity. This approach honors the past while paving the way for a progressive future.

The meticulous attention to detail observed in this project encompasses both form and function, creating a setting that is inviting and conducive to community life. Whether considering the sustainable practices employed, the innovative use of materials, or the inclusive design philosophy, the project emerges as a model of contemporary architectural thinking.

For those interested in delving deeper into the nuances of this architectural endeavor, additional insights can be garnered through the examination of architectural plans, sections, and a closer exploration of the overarching design concepts. Engaging with these elements will provide a richer understanding of how this project embodies a commitment to thoughtful, community-centered architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy