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Charred Wooden Shingles Elevate Community Living Along the Tiber River

Authors:
Naomi Hébert, Ji won Jun, Shu Guo
Charred Wooden Shingles Elevate Community Living Along the Tiber River

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this community-oriented development along the Tiber River redefines urban living through flexible spaces that blend residential and commercial functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize construction efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features flexible spatial arrangements that promote communal living and interaction.
04
Integrates urban gardens that support ecological diversity and community engagement.
05
Designed along the Tiber River, it maximizes views and outdoor accessibility.
The Co-Blocks project represents a contemporary architectural design initiative located in the Ostiense neighborhood of Rome, adjacent to the Tiber River. This project focuses on redefining urban living through a comprehensive community-oriented approach. It structures multifaceted living spaces that accommodate various activities, addressing the needs of modern inhabitants while fostering social interactions among residents. This design integrates living, working, and leisure areas into a cohesive urban fabric.

The design incorporates modular architecture, which allows for flexible and adaptive space usage, encouraging a dynamic community environment. Each block of the project is strategically positioned to maximize views of the river and provide accessible outdoor areas for recreation and socializing. The integration of green spaces such as community gardens and rain gardens reinforces the commitment to sustainability, enhancing both the aesthetic and ecological value of the site.

Unique Design Approaches
Co-Blocks utilizes an innovative mixed-use strategy that combines residential units with commercial and community facilities. This integration promotes functionality and connects individuals within the development. Moreover, the thoughtful incorporation of historic elements from the surrounding neighborhood provides a seamless blend of old and new, allowing residents to engage with the historical context of the area while enjoying modern amenities.

The project showcases flexible spatial arrangements, where communal areas such as co-working spaces and shared kitchens are designed to encourage collaboration and interaction among residents. Furthermore, the strategic use of sustainable materials, such as cross-laminated timber and recycled steel, aligns with contemporary architectural practices aimed at minimizing environmental impact. The incorporation of large windows and open layouts facilitates natural light penetration and enhances the relationship between indoor and outdoor environments.

Community-Oriented Design
The Co-Blocks project is not merely an architectural endeavor; it is a deliberate response to the evolving nature of urban life. By prioritizing social interactions and community cohesion, this design fosters a sense of belonging among residents. The allocation of space for markets, gathering areas, and multi-purpose facilities encourages cultural activities and economic opportunities within the neighborhood.

The architecture addresses the principles of urban density by maximizing usable space without compromising quality of life. Elements such as balconies and terraces extend living spaces outdoors, allowing residents to connect to nature while remaining within an urban setting. This project ultimately establishes a benchmark for future developments that aspire to balance contemporary living with community-oriented principles.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design narratives of the Co-Blocks project, interested readers should explore the detailed project presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the innovative architectural ideas encapsulated in this initiative.
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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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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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