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 Transparent Walls Defining a Community Hub in France

Authors:
Khushi Mahesh Shirur, Dev Joshi, Sanya Malhotra
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Walls Defining a Community Hub in France

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and expansive transparent walls, the design creates an inviting community center that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings while prioritizing sustainability and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame structure that optimizes natural light throughout the interior.
04
Integrates a community plaza that fosters social interaction and outdoor activities.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials to promote regional craftsmanship and sustainability.
The architectural project under consideration exemplifies a thoughtful integration of form and function, set within a specific geographical context that informs its design ethos. This endeavor serves not only as a physical structure but also as a manifestation of the cultural and environmental narratives that permeate the locale. The primary aim of this project is to create spaces that foster community interaction while providing essential services and amenities.

In its conceptual development, the project offers a cohesive vision that merges contemporary design with traditional influences, allowing it to resonate with the existing architectural vernacular. The architects have employed a careful selection of materials, which include concrete, glass, steel, and timber. These materials have been chosen not solely for their aesthetic appeal but also for their functional properties and sustainability. The use of concrete delivers structural integrity and durability, while glass introduces transparency and a connection to the surrounding environment. The incorporation of steel provides flexibility in design, and timber adds warmth and a tactile quality that enhances the user experience.

The spatial organization of the project is meticulously conceived, with an emphasis on how users will navigate and interact within the space. Key areas include communal gathering zones, public facilities, and private spaces, all of which are interlinked to promote seamless flow and accessibility. This holistic approach to spatial planning underscores the importance of human-centered design, recognizing that the architecture serves as a backdrop to the lived experiences of its occupants.

A distinctive feature of the project is its commitment to sustainability. Various architectural elements are thoughtfully designed to optimize energy efficiency and minimize environmental impact. For instance, expansive windows allow for natural daylight to permeate the interior, reducing the reliance on artificial lighting. The integration of green roofs and walls not only contributes to biodiversity but also enhances the building's thermal performance, contributing to a reduced carbon footprint.

Particular attention has been paid to the landscape surrounding the project. The outdoor areas, designed with native vegetation, create a welcoming environment that encourages outdoor activities and promotes biodiversity. Pathways and seating areas are crafted to facilitate social gatherings and community events, enhancing the project's role as a focal point within the neighborhood.

The architectural details, from the choice of finishes to the meticulous craftsmanship, reflect a dedication to quality and an understanding of context. Each element contributes to an overarching narrative that speaks to the aspirations of the community it serves. The interplay of light and shadow, the textural variations in materials, and the thoughtful positioning of elements within the landscape create a dynamic environment that evolves throughout the day.

What sets this project apart is not merely its architectural beauty but its functional effectiveness in serving the community's needs. It acts as a catalyst for engagement, bringing people together in shared spaces while respecting and reflecting the cultural heritage of the area. The design represents a thoughtful dialogue between past, present, and future, showcasing how architecture can embody a sense of place.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural intricacies of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide a more comprehensive understanding of its unique attributes and architectural ideas. Engaging with these elements will reveal the meticulous thought process behind the design outcomes and the intentional choices made by the architects to ensure that the project remains a valuable asset to its community.
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