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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades Enhance Modular Urban Living

Author:
Natálie Costantinová
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades Enhance Modular Urban Living

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through the use of charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this modular housing concept redefines urban living by seamlessly integrating natural materials with contemporary functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that offer both structural integrity and aesthetic warmth.
03
Incorporates multifunctional modular pillars that serve various living needs.
04
Integrates large glass facades to maximize natural light and promote indoor-outdoor connection.
05
Adopts a bent A-frame design, optimizing space while providing a distinct architectural silhouette.
The Modular Housing Concept “Bloky” stands as a thoughtful exploration of modern residential design, addressing contemporary challenges in urban living by offering a flexible and efficient housing solution. This architectural project is defined by its innovative modularity, presenting a fresh approach to compact living that combines practicality with aesthetic appeal. Bloky signifies a shift towards a more sustainable and adaptable form of housing that caters to the evolving needs of diverse households.

At the core of Bloky’s design is its modular system, which consists of three types of pre-fabricated units. These modules enhance the construction process, allowing for rapid assembly while minimizing waste and environmental impact. Each module serves multiple purposes, exemplifying how architecture can promote efficiency and functionality within a limited footprint. This thoughtful organization reflects a keen understanding of modern lifestyle demands, where spatial efficiency and versatility are paramount.

The architecture of Bloky emphasizes open living spaces that foster a sense of connection with the surrounding environment. Large glass panels feature prominently in the design, creating an inviting ambiance by flooding interior spaces with natural light. This seamless integration between indoors and outdoors encourages residents to embrace their surroundings while reinforcing the importance of nature in everyday life. The design promotes a lifestyle that harmonizes the built environment with natural elements, reflecting a growing trend in architecture toward biophilic design principles.

Additionally, the structural components of Bloky are carefully conceived to serve both form and function. The modular pillars, which house essential amenities, play a crucial role in maintaining an open floor plan. They are not merely structural supports; they also encompass integrated closets, kitchen units, and bathroom facilities. This integration smartly utilizes vertical space while allowing for an uncluttered living area, thus optimizing usability. This innovative approach to space makes room for personalization, catering to the preferences of various inhabitants through adjustable design elements.

The choice of materials in Bloky’s construction reflects a commitment to durability and modern aesthetics. While the specific materials have not been detailed, typical choices for such projects often include steel for structural integrity, wood for warmth and aesthetic versatility, glass for transparency and light, and concrete for robustness. Combining these materials not only enhances the visual appeal of the project but also reinforces its practical functionality. This nuanced application of materiality demonstrates how thoughtful design choices can yield a cohesive architectural narrative.

What sets Bloky apart from conventional residential designs is its inherent flexibility. Each module can be expanded or modified, allowing residents to adapt their living spaces to fit changing needs without extensive renovations. This adaptability underlines a shift in architectural thinking, catering not just to immediate requirements but also to future possibilities. It encourages a lifestyle where homes evolve alongside their inhabitants, ultimately contributing to sustainable living practices.

The design of Bloky also invites broad discussion around the ways in which modular housing can impact urban environments. By promoting compact living solutions, it challenges the notion of traditional single-family homes while addressing the pressing issues of urban density and land use. As urban areas continue to grow, innovative approaches like Bloky can play a vital role in creating more livable cities.

In summary, the Modular Housing Concept Bloky exemplifies a contemporary architectural approach that prioritizes flexibility, sustainability, and community integration. Through its innovative design, the project highlights how modular construction and thoughtful material usage can lead to aesthetically pleasing, functional, and adaptable living spaces. For a more in-depth look at the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural ideas that define this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of Bloky to gain a comprehensive understanding of its design principles and outcomes.
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MICROHOME
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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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