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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Greenery in Affordable Housing Development

Author:
Mariano Managò
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Greenery in Affordable Housing Development

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and vertical greenery, this affordable housing development redefines urban living through sustainable materials and adaptable spaces designed to foster community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates vertical greenery to enhance biodiversity and improve air quality.
02
Features winter gardens that extend living spaces and promote outdoor engagement.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels, reducing construction time and minimizing waste.
05
Offers five diverse apartment types catering to varying family sizes and needs.
"Good Value(s) for Barking" is an architectural project focused on addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in Barking, London. The design merges functionality with aesthetic appeal, creating a living environment that upholds the principles of affordability and accessibility without sacrificing quality. This project illustrates the potential of architecture to respond to socio-economic challenges while fostering community engagement.

**Design Intent and Functionality**

The primary function of the project is to provide diverse and affordable housing options for various demographics. The design offers five distinct types of residential units ranging from 35 sqm to 140 sqm, catering to different household sizes and needs. By prioritizing flexibility in living arrangements, the architecture allows residents to select spaces that best fit their circumstances. This user-centered approach reflects a commitment to inclusivity and adaptability in urban housing design.

**Unique Design Approaches**

The architectural design employs low-cost materials strategically to maximize value while minimizing expenses. Notable materials used in the project include timber, plywood, concrete, and glass. Timber is utilized for balconies and interior finishes, enhancing warmth and natural aesthetics. Plywood serves functional interiors, offering cost-effective solutions with improved acoustic qualities. Concrete is the primary structural material, providing durability, while glass facades enhance light penetration and visual connections to the outdoors.

The project features elongated balconies and winter gardens, integrating indoor and outdoor living spaces. This design enables residents to experience nature while promoting an improved quality of life. Furthermore, vertical greenery and communal gardens enhance environmental sustainability and foster community collaboration. These elements differentiate this project from typical housing developments, showcasing a layered approach to urban living that incorporates nature and social interaction into daily life.

**Community Integration and Urban Context**

Situated in Barking, where the homeownership rate is approximately 48%, the project addresses the urgent need for affordable housing amid a backdrop of economic diversity. The design interlaces residential spaces with pedestrian pathways and landscaped areas, facilitating community connectivity and engagement. This architectural approach aligns with broader urban development goals, promoting a sense of place for residents and facilitating access to public transport, shops, and services.

The strategic combination of varied apartment sizes, sustainable materials, and community-oriented design positions "Good Value(s) for Barking" as a relevant response to current housing challenges. For further insights into this project, consider exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs to better understand the innovative approaches implemented to realize its vision.
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Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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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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