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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens Define an Ecological Memorial Space

Author:
Donggyu Lee
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens Define an Ecological Memorial Space

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive vertical gardens come together to create a memorial space that honors the legacy of herbalism and witchcraft while serving as a community hub for education and research.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and aesthetic continuity with the landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
03
Vertical gardens incorporate local flora, supporting biodiversity and education in herbalism.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and enhances spatial dynamics within the interior.
05
Interactive exhibition spaces facilitate community engagement with the history of witchcraft and herbal medicine.
The Witchology Laboratory is a distinct architectural project designed as a memorial for witches, emphasizing their contributions to herbal medicine and ecological practices. Situated within an urban landscape, the laboratory serves multiple functions: it is a space for research, education, and collaboration, while also acting as a reflective site for visitors to engage with the history and traditions surrounding witchcraft.

This architectural design seamlessly integrates with its environment, using natural and sustainable materials to create a cohesive structure that appears to emerge from the landscape. The building is characterized by its unique spatial configurations and multifunctional areas, including laboratories, educational exhibition spaces, and gardens for growing medicinal herbs. Large glass surfaces facilitate natural light and foster a connection between the interior spaces and the surrounding ecological context, further reinforcing its purpose as a hub for ecological understanding.

Innovative Design Approaches

A notable aspect of the Witchology Laboratory's design is its commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of green roofs and vertical gardens not only enhances biodiversity but also creates an immersive experience for occupants and visitors. These gardens allow for the cultivation of local plants, directly reflecting the project’s emphasis on herbalism, which is integral to the narrative surrounding the use of traditional botanical knowledge.

Spatially, the interior of the laboratory is designed to be fluid and adaptable. The arrangement encourages collaboration and allows for a variety of educational activities. The asymmetrical layout and organic forms challenge conventional architectural norms, providing an inviting and inclusive atmosphere that actively engages users.

Community Engagement and Education

The Witchology Laboratory serves as more than just an architectural project; it is a community center that fosters dialogue on herbalism and shifts societal perspectives on witchcraft. By hosting workshops, lectures, and interactive exhibitions, the space promotes a deeper understanding of herbal medicine as a valid form of healing, countering historical misconceptions. The design also emphasizes local narratives, incorporating elements that resonate with the history of witch trials and the roles of women in herbal practices.

The architectural elements—such as the use of natural materials like reinforced concrete, steel frames, and glazing—demonstrate a careful balance of durability and aesthetic appeal. This combination directly contributes to the building's function as a gathering space while ensuring it stands as a testament to the resilience of historical practices.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Witchology Laboratory, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs for deeper insights into the innovative ideas that shape this 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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