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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Multifunctional Urban Habitat

Author:
Marian Lee
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Multifunctional Urban Habitat

Project in-detail

With an exterior clad in charred wooden shingles and integrated vertical gardens, the design fosters urban agriculture and community interaction within a multifunctional habitat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Exterior cladding uses charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Vertical gardens are integrated into the design to promote urban agriculture and biodiversity.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for lightweight structural support and sustainability.
04
Community facilities include a shared kitchen and child care center designed for interaction.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the spaces.
The architectural design project focuses on enhancing urban living through the integration of renewable food systems and social community spaces. Located in an urban setting, the project serves as a model for connecting residential areas with sustainable practices, emphasizing community engagement and environmental responsibility. The design accommodates various functions, including housing, communal gardens, educational facilities, and childcare areas, thereby reinforcing its role as a multifunctional hub.

Sustainable Practices and Vertical Integration

One of the notable aspects of this project is its emphasis on sustainability. The architecture employs vertical gardens and green roofs designed to optimize limited space while promoting urban agriculture. This innovative approach to food production not only provides residents with fresh produce but also enhances biodiversity and contributes to stormwater management. The integration of outdoor gardening spaces encourages residents to participate actively in food cultivation, fostering a sense of ownership and direct connection to their food sources.

The layout is characterized by multi-level spacing that segregates private residential units from communal facilities. Ground-level areas are dedicated to community-oriented functions, including a childcare center and communal kitchens, facilitating interaction among residents. The upper levels are designed primarily for residential use, ensuring privacy while maintaining accessibility to shared amenities. Large glazing elements throughout the design maximize natural light, reducing dependence on artificial lighting, further aligning with sustainable architecture principles.

Community Engagement through Design

Promoting community cohesion is central to the project's philosophy. Design elements such as shared social spaces and flexible gathering areas are strategically placed to encourage interaction among residents. These spaces serve not just as meeting points but also as educational resources where workshops on sustainability, nutrition, and gardening can take place. The architectural design emphasizes the importance of social bonds and collective well-being in an urban context, responding to the modern need for connection in an increasingly fragmented urban landscape.

The integration of educational facilities stands as a unique feature, with dedicated spaces for teaching residents about sustainable food systems and healthy lifestyles. This educational aspect differentiates the project from typical residential developments, as it explicitly aims to empower the community through knowledge and practice.

Explore the Project in Detail

This architectural project represents a thoughtful integration of sustainable practices, community engagement, and multipurpose functionality. The unique design approaches employed—ranging from vertical gardens to community-oriented layouts—provide valuable insights into contemporary architecture. For further understanding of this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and design elements presented. Engaging with these materials will provide a comprehensive perspective on the functionality and innovative ideas encapsulated in this architectural endeavor.
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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 
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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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