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 Vertical Courtyards in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Author:
Hyeyong Wang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Courtyards in a Sustainable Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles with vertical courtyards, the design creates a harmonious blend of natural materials and sustainable living, resulting in a vibrant urban residence that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Vertical courtyards provide natural light and promote biodiversity within the urban setting.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to optimize sustainability while ensuring structural integrity.
04
The bent A-frame design minimizes the building's carbon footprint and allows for efficient water drainage.
05
Exterior green spaces seamlessly blend with the architecture, fostering a connection to nature.
The architectural project under analysis presents a thoughtful integration of form, function, and context, creating a coherent narrative that reflects the aspirations of contemporary architectural practice. Situated in a dynamic urban environment, the design effectively responds to the local climate, culture, and environmental considerations, showcasing a refined approach to modern architecture.

The overall concept of the project revolves around the idea of connectivity and community engagement. It adopts an open layout that encourages interaction among its users while providing spaces for solitude and reflection. This duality is crucial in shaping the building’s atmosphere, making it a versatile space that caters to various needs, from collaborative work sessions to quiet contemplation. The design promotes an inclusive environment, inviting not only residents but also visitors to explore and engage with the space.

Architecturally, the project features a harmonious blend of various materials that serve functional, aesthetic, and environmental purposes. Predominantly, the use of reinforced concrete provides structural integrity while allowing for expansive windows that fill the interiors with natural light. This approach ensures energy efficiency and minimizes reliance on artificial lighting. Additionally, local timber is employed in certain areas, adding warmth and texture, while contributing to the sustainability goals of the project by reducing transportation impacts associated with material sourcing.

The building’s façade is a testament to modern design language, characterized by clean lines and a meticulously considered rhythm of openings and setbacks. This design choice not only enhances visual interest but also serves to regulate heat gain and loss, thereby optimizing energy performance. The incorporation of green spaces, including vertical gardens and rooftop terraces, integrates nature into the architectural experience, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

Within the interior, the layout is strategically organized to maximize functionality and flow. Spaces are delineated through subtle changes in flooring materials and ceiling heights, allowing for a seamless transition between different areas. The selection of finishes—ranging from polished concrete to soft textile wall coverings—creates a tactile richness that enhances user experience. Additionally, attention to acoustics has been a priority, with sound-absorbing materials strategically placed to minimize noise disruption in shared areas.

A notable aspect of this project is its commitment to sustainable design principles. The architecture incorporates passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation and thermal massing, to reduce energy consumption. Moreover, the implementation of solar panels on the roof not only contributes to the building's energy needs but also aligns with the broader goals of environmental responsibility.

The uniqueness of this architectural project lies in its thoughtful response to the surrounding urban fabric and its integration of community-oriented spaces. By fostering interaction and engagement, the design encourages a sense of ownership among its users. The commitment to sustainability and the use of local materials also enhances the project's relevance within its context, making it a role model for future developments.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural aspects of this project, further exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs will provide comprehensive insights into the thoughtful details and innovative ideas that shape this modern architectural endeavor. The careful consideration of both form and function illustrates how contemporary architecture can effectively serve its community and environment.
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