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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Centric Living Space

Author:
Mabel Parsons
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Centric Living Space

Project in-detail

Vertical gardens integrated with charred wooden shingles create an inviting atmosphere for a community-focused living space designed for single-parent families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Vertical gardens enhance food security and community interaction.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for rapid assembly and sustainability.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and ventilation.
05
Communal kitchens and shared spaces encourage collaborative living.
The Peckham Experiment is a multifaceted architectural project located in Peckham, South London, designed to address housing needs for single-parent families while fostering community engagement. Its architecture not only provides living spaces but also enhances social interaction, self-sufficiency, and sustainability. The project integrates various functions, including residential units, communal spaces, and edible landscapes, establishing a model for contemporary urban living.

Integrating Community and Sustainability

A defining feature of the Peckham Experiment is its emphasis on collective living. The layout consists of interconnected housing units that encourage social interaction and community building. Shared facilities such as kitchens, gardens, and recreational areas are strategically placed to dissolve barriers often present in traditional housing. This design promotes cooperative engagement among residents, enabling them to share resources and skills.

The use of sustainable materials significantly differentiates this project from others in the area. Wood serves as the primary material for structural frames and external cladding, promoting sustainability while maintaining aesthetic value. Metal components add durability, particularly in the roofing details, while extensive use of glass allows natural light to permeate living spaces, enhancing well-being and reducing energy consumption.

Innovative Spatial Strategies

The architectural design incorporates innovative spatial strategies that respond to the needs of the community. Various phases of the project are planned to facilitate gradual growth and adaptability. Initially, the establishment of communal gathering points lays the groundwork for later phases that expand residential offerings. Future developments also include the integration of natural water systems and market spaces for community-produced goods.

Vertical gardens and allotment spaces are critical components of the site. They not only provide fresh produce but also serve as educational spots for residents to learn about sustainable practices. This approach merges living and leisure, effectively transforming cut-off urban areas into productive landscapes, promoting both environmental stewardship and community resilience.

The architectural plans emphasize thoughtful transitions between private and public spaces through careful placement and design of courtyards and pathways, reinforcing the sense of community.

The Peckham Experiment sets a precedent for affordable housing by intertwining architecture with community wellness and sustainability. The project exemplifies how integrated design can facilitate not just shelter but a supportive, engaged living environment. For a deeper insight into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, interested readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the 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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