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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Fins Defining Community Spaces Along the Limmat River

Author:
Mevlide Murina
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Fins Defining Community Spaces Along the Limmat River

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and meticulously arranged vertical fins, the design seamlessly integrates into its riverside setting, creating flexible spaces for both quiet reflection and vibrant community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural strength and visual interest.
04
Includes movable partitions that allow for flexible spatial arrangements to accommodate various activities.
05
Strategically positioned vertical fins provide shade and optimize natural light entry throughout the day.
The project is a thoughtfully designed architectural intervention situated along the banks of the Limmat river in Zürich, Switzerland. This design represents a progressive step in creating spaces that not only serve practical functions but also enhance social interaction and promote educational activities. Its primary purpose is to provide a versatile facility that accommodates various communal and individual pursuits.

The architectural design integrates dual zones catering to different user experiences. It acknowledges the complex nature of human behavior, incorporating quiet areas for focused study alongside dynamic spaces intended for collaboration and discussion. This segmentation allows users to choose their experience based on their immediate needs, promoting a harmonious balance between solitude and social interaction.

A notable feature of the design is its fluid spatial organization. The arrangement facilitates easy navigation while ensuring each zone serves its intended purpose. The quiet zones are meticulously planned to minimize distractions, offering an oasis for individuals seeking immersion in their work. These areas include comfortable seating and ample natural light, providing environments conducive to concentration. Conversely, the shared spaces are equipped to support group activities, encouraging collaboration and dialogue, which are essential for a thriving educational climate.

The facade of the building stands out due to its rhythmic and textured layering. This design choice not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also serves functional purposes. Vertical fins provide shade and regulate temperature, contributing to energy efficiency while simultaneously creating a visually engaging exterior. The interaction between light and shadow throughout the day adds dynamic qualities to the building.

Materiality plays a critical role in the architectural expression of the project. The primary materials employed include insitu reinforced concrete, timber, steel, and precast planks. Each material has been selected not only for its structural capabilities but also for its environmental impact. Timber, in particular, reflects a commitment to sustainability, as it is a renewable resource that significantly reduces the overall carbon footprint of the structure. The combination of these materials illustrates a modern architectural vernacular that marries durability with ecological responsibility.

A standout aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainable practices and environmental considerations. The building's orientation and window placements have been carefully analyzed to optimize daylight entry while minimizing glare. This not only enhances the comfort of the interiors but also reduces reliance on artificial lighting, thereby supporting energy efficiency. The project exemplifies principles of sustainability through lifecycle assessments of materials, further underpinning its ecological integrity.

In addition to functional and aesthetic dimensions, the building's location enriches the design by forging a connection with the natural landscape. The proximity to the Limmat river provides opportunities for outdoor engagement, encouraging users to interact with both the facility and its surroundings. Pathways and communal areas are thoughtfully integrated to foster connectivity between the building and the urban environment, promoting sustainable transportation options while enhancing public accessibility.

This architectural project stands as a compelling example of how intelligent design can create adaptable, user-focused spaces while prioritizing environmental sustainability. The innovative approaches taken throughout its conception and realization illustrate a commitment to evolving concepts in architecture. The careful interplay of spatial organization, material selection, and environmental considerations highlights an adaptive architectural response to contemporary needs.

To delve deeper into the intricacies of this architectural endeavor, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for further insights into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs employed in the creation of this facility. Viewing these elements can provide a more comprehensive understanding of the thoughtful ideas and design strategies that define this noteworthy project.
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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
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