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Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace A Communal Courtyard In A Sustainable Living Space

Authors:
Ioana otilia Popescu, Madalina Facaeru, Alexandra Moise, Carolina Zecheru
Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace A Communal Courtyard In A Sustainable Living Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements, the design harmonizes with its forested surroundings to create inviting communal and private spaces for two families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that improve structural performance and sustainability.
03
Integrates an inner courtyard designed to facilitate communal interactions between families.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
05
Includes dedicated workshops adjacent to living areas, promoting work-life balance within the home.
The architectural project under analysis is a residential structure designed to accommodate two families, emphasizing community interaction while ensuring individual privacy. The layout is organized around a central core that serves as a communal hub, facilitating shared activities. The project is characterized by its integration with the surrounding forest environment, reinforcing a connection to nature.

The primary function of this architectural design is to provide dual living spaces that support family unity and collaboration. The design carefully blends communal and private areas, featuring a shared kitchen and living room that promote interaction, while individual workshops provide space for personal work pursuits. The use of an inner courtyard fosters both relaxation and social engagement, making it a pivotal element of the overall design.

Materiality plays a critical role in the project's execution. The choice of wooden cladding offers warmth and integrates seamlessly with the natural surroundings, while thatched roofing enhances durability and provides thermal insulation. Additionally, large glass elements in the architecture facilitate natural light, creating a spacious and open feel within the home. Concrete and natural stone contribute to the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal, rounding out the material palette.

Community-Centric Design Approach

This project stands out due to its innovative design that prioritizes communal living. The layout encourages interaction between family members and promotes a lifestyle that values connection, all while respecting individual needs. The configuration integrates private workshops adjacent to the communal areas, allowing for a division of work and personal life while still fostering a sense of togetherness. The design intentionally utilizes the inner courtyard as a gathering space, enhancing social cohesion among occupants.

A biophilic design approach further distinguishes this project. By harmonizing the architecture with the surrounding landscape, the design aims to create a living environment that enhances well-being through a strong connection to nature. The materials chosen not only address aesthetic concerns but also reinforce this relationship, ensuring that the structure complements its environment.

Spatial Relationships and Flow

The layout of the house effectively balances communal and private spaces. The orientation of the front-facing living areas invites residents and visitors into a welcoming environment while maintaining a clear distinction between private and shared domains. The central kitchen and living room facilitate family gatherings, supported by sliding doors that create fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor areas. The design employs thoughtful spatial relationships to foster a sense of unity, encouraging social interaction while providing necessary privacy.

The inner courtyard serves as the heart of the project, framing the family's interactions and offering a controlled outdoor space. This arrangement supports both spontaneous and planned gatherings, making it central to the daily lives of the residents.

For those interested in further exploration of this architectural design, detailed architectural plans, sections, and various designs are available for review. These elements provide deeper insights into the functional and aesthetic intentions behind the project, showcasing how thoughtful design can effectively serve community-oriented living.
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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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