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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Focused Urban Hub

Author:
Francisco Curioni Janzantti
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Focused Urban Hub

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability through charred wooden shingles and integrating vertical gardens, the design fosters community interaction in a dynamic mixed-use urban hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and aesthetic texture.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens designed to improve air quality and provide insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and space efficiency.
04
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.
05
Includes flexible communal areas that can adapt to various community events and activities.
The architectural project under analysis presents a thoughtfully designed response to its environment, incorporating functional, aesthetic, and contextual considerations that embody a modern architectural language. Located in a bustling urban area, the project seeks to integrate seamlessly into the surrounding landscape while establishing its unique identity. The design represents a synthesis of form and function, providing spaces that are adaptable to a variety of uses, reflecting contemporary needs and lifestyles.

At its core, the project is intended for mixed-use purposes, combining residential and commercial spaces to foster community interaction and promote a vibrant atmosphere. The layout is meticulously organized, facilitating a flow of movement that encourages engagement among inhabitants and visitors alike. Central to the project is a communal area that serves as a focal point, designed to invite social interaction and collaboration. This area is flanked by multifunctional spaces, including retail outlets and gathering spaces, reinforcing the commitment to community-oriented architecture.

The architectural design employs a mix of materials that articulate both texture and durability, reflecting the local context and climate. Predominantly, the project utilizes reinforced concrete, which provides structural integrity and a robust frame. The façade incorporates large expanses of glass, promoting transparency and connectivity between indoor and outdoor environments. This choice also maximizes natural light, enhancing the overall ambiance of the spaces. Wood accents are introduced to soften the concrete and glass juxtaposition, adding warmth and a sense of human scale. Additionally, the integration of green spaces, such as vertical gardens and landscaped terraces, highlights a commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness, creating a harmonious relationship with the natural environment.

Unique to this project is its approach to flexibility in design. The architectural plans reflect foresight in accommodating future adaptability, making provisions for spaces that can evolve in response to changing societal needs. By including modular elements and movable partitions, the spaces can be reconfigured over time, ensuring longevity and relevance. This adaptability is particularly crucial in urban settings where demographic and economic conditions fluctuate.

The architectural sections illustrate a thoughtful consideration for spatial organization, with an emphasis on creating visual connections between different levels and areas of the building. The design takes advantage of vertical circulation, utilizing open staircases and atriums that promote interaction while enhancing the sense of openness. Natural ventilation is another key consideration, with strategically placed windows and operable façades facilitating airflow and reducing reliance on mechanical systems, thus contributing to energy efficiency.

In exploring the unique aspects of this project, it is evident that it emphasizes a dialogue between the built environment and its natural surroundings. Beyond merely providing shelter and functional spaces, the design encapsulates a philosophy of inclusivity and sustainability. Every element, from material choices to spatial configurations, serves a purpose, underscoring the intelligence embedded in the design process.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural concepts and innovations presented in this project, it would be beneficial to review the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs. These documents provide an in-depth understanding of how the project translates its visionary ideas into tangible spaces. By examining the architectural designs and the underlying principles that informed them, readers can gain valuable insights into modern architectural practices and the thought processes that shape meaningful environments. This exploration not only enhances appreciation for the design but also encourages engagement with contemporary architectural ideas and trends.
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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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