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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades Enhancing Community Interaction in Urban Living Spaces

Authors:
Florin Jude, Ioana Galie, Ioana Galie
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Facades Enhancing Community Interaction in Urban Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, this urban living space fosters community interaction while seamlessly connecting to its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features large glass facades that promote natural light and visual connectivity to the surroundings.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable construction and structural stability.
04
Includes a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while minimizing environmental impact.
05
Integrates public green spaces adjacent to the structure, fostering community interaction.
The project known as KRAKOW O2 HOME stands as an insightful interpretation of modern architecture, seamlessly integrating community values with functional design in the heart of Krakow, Poland. This architectural endeavor is designed to serve as a versatile living and gathering space, reflecting the shifting dynamics of contemporary urban life. By prioritizing communal interaction and individual privacy, the project fosters a balanced environment that caters to both social and personal needs.

At its core, KRAKOW O2 HOME represents a harmonious blend of community engagement and adaptive living. The design cleverly delineates various zones, effectively separating communal areas from private spaces while ensuring fluid connectivity throughout the building. The project facilitates diverse activities, from social events to quiet reflection, accommodating the multifaceted nature of modern life. This careful consideration of functionality extends beyond mere layout, as the building's organization creates an inviting atmosphere that encourages shared experiences among its users.

The architectural design of KRAKOW O2 HOME is marked by its thoughtful material selection and structural integrity. Predominantly featuring glass, wood, and a light steel framework, the materials not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also promote sustainability. The glass exteriors and partitions serve to create a sense of openness and transparency, allowing natural light to permeate the interiors while connecting occupants to the surrounding landscape. Wood elements provide warmth and tactile comfort, making the environment feel inviting, while the metal framework ensures durability and stability. This combination of materials exemplifies a modern approach to building, where aesthetics and functionality coexist.

A significant highlight within the project is the varying height regime across different zones. The community room features an increased height of 5.5 meters, promoting a spaciousness ideal for gatherings and social interactions. In contrast, the dining area, standing at 5.1 meters, and the office space at 4.2 meters create a nuanced experience that respects the hierarchies of purpose and connectivity. This vertical variation contributes to a dynamic spatial experience, enhancing both the functional and emotional responses of those who inhabit the building.

The landscape surrounding KRAKOW O2 HOME is thoughtfully integrated, further enhancing the project's appeal. The adjacent park area serves as an extension of the building's communal aspirations, inviting the public to engage with nature and socialize comfortably. This design encourages a symbiotic relationship between built and natural environments, supporting the architectural philosophy that modern living should not only coexist with nature but thrive alongside it.

Unique design approaches are central to the KRAKOW O2 HOME project. The conceptual framework driving this architectural endeavor emphasizes an unequivocal connection to the historical and cultural context of Krakow. By respecting and responding to the existing urban fabric, the project successfully balances modernity with tradition, creating a structure that feels both contemporary and rooted. The integration of public and private spaces illustrates a nuanced understanding of community needs, setting a precedent for future architectural projects.

KRAKOW O2 HOME exemplifies how architecture can serve as a catalyst for community bonding and individual well-being. Through its unique design and thoughtful materiality, the project stands out in its commitment to creating inclusive spaces that resonate with the complexities of modern urban life. For those interested in exploring the many facets of this architectural endeavor, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, engaging with the full project presentation will provide deeper insights into its various components and overarching design philosophy.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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