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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Glass Walls Shape a Community-Focused Urban Space

Authors:
Francois Gerhard Nortje, Dewald Andries Visser, Jurgen Maletzky, Bea Liebenberg
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Glass Walls Shape a Community-Focused Urban Space

Project in-detail

Integrating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design creates a dialogue between nature and urban life, serving as a multifunctional community hub that fosters social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and efficient construction.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while minimizing exterior footprint.
04
Integrates green roofs and terraces to promote biodiversity and improve urban ecology.
05
Designed with flexible multifunctional spaces to adapt to various community activities and events.
The project under analysis exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture, illustrating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetics. Situated in a vibrant urban context, the design represents a modern interpretation of traditional forms, reimagined to meet the needs of its users while responding sensitively to its surroundings. This architectural endeavor aims to serve not merely as a space but as a catalyst for community interaction and engagement.

The architecture of the project is characterized by its clean lines and a carefully balanced composition that reflects a commitment to simplicity and elegance. The façade is crafted using a palette of materials that includes glass, steel, and sustainably sourced wood, showcasing a modern approach to materiality that emphasizes transparency and lightness. The expansive glass walls not only create a visual connection to the outside world but also invite natural light to seep into the interiors, promoting a sense of openness and inclusivity. This design choice enhances the environmental performance of the building, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and creating a more inviting atmosphere.

At the heart of the project’s design is its multifunctional spatial organization, which ensures flexibility to accommodate a variety of uses. The layout is intuitively devised, facilitating seamless navigation and interaction among different areas. Open spaces transition fluidly into semi-enclosed zones, allowing for informal gatherings while still providing the necessary privacy for work and reflection. This thoughtful spatial arrangement exemplifies an understanding of contemporary lifestyles, where adaptability is key.

Unique design approaches are evident in the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces. Terraces and balconies punctuate the structure, establishing a dialogue between the built environment and nature. These outdoor areas serve not just as aesthetic features but as essential extensions of the interior, encouraging inhabitants to engage with the landscape and each other. This relationship is further enhanced by the strategic planting of greenery, softening the overall appearance of the structure while improving air quality and providing habitats for local wildlife.

Moreover, the project embraces sustainability not only in material selection but also in its energy-efficient systems. The incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, reflects a proactive stance towards environmental stewardship. Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to the building's self-sufficiency, minimizing its ecological footprint and promoting responsible water usage.

The design also pays homage to the surrounding cultural and historical context, melding local architectural vernacular with modern sensibilities. The careful choice of materials, color palettes, and textures integrates the building into the fabric of the neighborhood, creating a sense of belonging that resonates with the local community. This contextual awareness demonstrates a deep respect for place and highlights the role of architecture in shaping social and cultural experiences.

In summary, this architectural project stands out as a masterful example of contemporary design that prioritizes user experience, environmental responsibility, and contextual harmony. Through careful consideration of materials, spatial organization, and the relationship between built and natural environments, the project successfully addresses the complexities of modern life while encouraging community interaction. For those interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the intricate details and spatial relations within this project, a review of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will offer valuable insights into its thoughtful conception and execution. Exploring these elements can provide a more comprehensive appreciation of the architectural intentions that underpin this noteworthy project.
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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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