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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Voids Reshaping Urban Housing Solutions

Authors:
Viktoria Bruns, Lilli Hanada, Hannes Hehemann
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Voids Reshaping Urban Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and vertical voids, the design transforms traditional housing into interconnected urban living spaces that foster community interaction and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical voids create natural light shafts, enhancing the living environment.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
03
Interconnected common areas promote social interaction among residents.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels support rapid construction and sustainability.
05
The bent A-frame design maximizes usable space while minimizing footprint.
The project, titled "On Private Property," addresses the challenges of urban living in Central London by transforming existing terraced housing into more functional and communal spaces. This architectural design project aims to confront the housing crisis through adaptive reuse and innovative interventions. The approach centers on creating interconnected living environments that enhance communal ties while respecting individual privacy.

The project consists of three main interventions labeled A, B, and C: Void, Courtyard, and Mews. Each intervention unfolds across three stages, systematically altering the traditional housing model to promote social interaction and functional living spaces. It emphasizes the efficient use of underutilized gaps, communal areas, and pedestrian-oriented environments, seamlessly integrating them into the fabric of the city.

Unique Design Approaches to Urban Housing

The Void intervention introduces vertical voids within the narrow gaps between Georgian townhouses, transforming these underused spaces into livable units. This method allows for the construction of additional apartments that not only meet housing demands but also foster community interactions through shared common areas. The design connects different residence units with accessible stairwells, promoting a sense of community and shared ownership that challenges typical private housing concepts.

The Courtyard intervention focuses on redefining public space by creating shared courtyards amidst the built environment. Here, the project replaces existing structures with a three-story apartment block that interacts with neighboring green spaces. This approach diversifies living arrangements and enhances connectivity among residents. The courtyards serve as multi-functional areas for leisure and socializing, encouraging communal activities and a sense of belonging.

The Mews intervention responds to the suburban layout by repurposing unnecessary parking spaces into semi-private areas that facilitate outdoor activity and community engagement. This strategy transforms the streetscape, prioritizing pedestrian movement and introducing green zones and community pavilions. The design incorporates new living units that reimagine the boundary between public and private spaces, fostering interaction while ensuring residents have distinct residential identities.

In exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project, readers will gain deeper insights into the methodologies employed and the innovative solutions proposed for urban living. This comprehensive analysis encourages a closer examination of the architectural ideas that underpin this design initiative, revealing how it addresses contemporary challenges in urban environments.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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