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Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Vertical Living in Sustainable Urban Community

Authors:
Camillo Marchionatti, Andrea Zanocchi, Rosastella Riccadonna
Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Vertical Living in Sustainable Urban Community

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles define the distinctive facade while expansive glass elements flood the interior spaces with light, creating a harmonious blend of nature and urbanity in a multi-functional community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainable construction practices.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrates extensive greenery throughout the facades to improve urban biodiversity.
05
Includes modular spaces that allow for flexible use and community engagement.
The project known as "Sky District" represents a significant advancement in architectural design, situated in an urban setting that demands efficient use of space while also addressing the complexities of contemporary city living. This multi-faceted building embodies a philosophy that promotes the integration of natural elements within a vertical environment, illustrating the project’s commitment to sustainability, community connectivity, and modern urbanism.

Designed as a response to increasing density in metropolitan areas, Sky District utilizes a modular approach which redefines the conventional block structure. The architecture encourages adaptability, allowing various configurations that could accommodate residential, commercial, and communal activities. This flexibility is key in meeting the diverse needs of urban inhabitants, making the project not just a place to live or work, but a hub for interaction and collaboration.

One of the prominently visible aspects of the design is the extensive use of glass. The choice of large glazing elements serves multiple purposes: it maximizes natural light infiltration, enhances visual connections between the interior and the surrounding environment, and provides a sense of openness in densely populated areas. The transparency encourages users to engage with the external urban context, acknowledging the importance of sightlines and environmental influence in architectural design.

The structural framework predominantly employs concrete and steel, known for their durability and suitability for high-rise constructions. Concrete allows for efficient prefabrication, which in turn hastens construction timelines and minimizes construction waste, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable building practices. Steel aids in creating expansive open spaces that can be modified as needed, supporting the project’s modular concept.

In a unique approach to integrating nature into urban architecture, Sky District incorporates greenery within the facades, blurring the boundaries between the built environment and the natural world. This design choice not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the ecological health of the city. The rooftop gardens and vertical planters offer opportunities for urban agriculture and recreation, promoting biodiversity while directly contributing to the well-being of residents.

Sky District also focuses on community building. Shared spaces such as terraces and communal gathering areas foster social interaction among residents, encouraging a sense of belonging and connection in a bustling urban setting. The design prioritizes these communal elements, understanding that social infrastructure is vital in enhancing the quality of urban life.

As the project unfolds, it invites a reconsideration of how architecture can address pressing urban challenges. By leveraging efficient construction techniques coupled with an emphasis on sustainability, the design reflects a well-thought-out architectural idea aimed at the future of urban living. For anyone interested in the nuances of this project and its impact on contemporary architecture, exploring the architectural plans and sections will provide valuable insights into how these elements work cohesively to define the essence of Sky District. Delving into the architectural designs offers a deeper understanding of the innovative strategies employed to realize this vision, showcasing not only the project's functional aspects but also its potential to inspire future endeavors in urban design.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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