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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping a Spiraled Community Hub With Vertical Greenery

Authors:
Julia Wiśniewska, Jakub Osowski
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping a Spiraled Community Hub With Vertical Greenery

Project in-detail

Wrapped in charred wooden shingles and embraced by vertical gardens, the spiraled community hub serves as a sustainable gathering space that fosters connection and collaboration among its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while promoting sustainability.
03
A spiraled layout fosters fluid movement and encourages community interactions.
04
Vertical gardens improve air quality and integrate nature into the building's aesthetic.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for ample natural light and distinctive architectural character.
The Spiral Center is a thoughtfully designed community hub nestled within the Spiral Ecological Village. This architectural project aims to embody the fundamental values of friendship, love, kindness, and sustainable living, creating a welcoming environment that encourages collaboration and connection among its residents. The design is not merely focused on aesthetics; it serves a functional purpose by offering a variety of spaces that foster social interaction and community engagement.

The architecture of The Spiral Center is characterized by its distinctive spiral form, representing inclusivity and growth. The building is meant to resonate with the natural patterns found in the surrounding landscape, incorporating elements that reflect both the ecological context and local architectural traditions. Located in a rural area, the center takes inspiration from the traditional stone structures prevalent in Portugal, seamlessly integrating into the environment while promoting a sense of belonging and community.

Functionally, The Spiral Center is designed to accommodate a wide range of activities. It features versatile gathering spaces that can host meetings, workshops, and community celebrations. The central atrium is a focal point of the design, surrounded by open areas that facilitate movement and interaction. This arrangement encourages spontaneity, allowing individuals to come together organically. Additionally, the presence of kitchen and dining facilities supports communal meals, further enhancing the connection among residents.

Materiality in The Spiral Center reflects a commitment to sustainability and ecological sensitivity. Wood is the primary material used throughout the structure, providing not only warmth and aesthetic appeal but also contributing to energy efficiency. Large glass windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. The stone foundation anchors the building and pays homage to local construction practices, while green walls featuring vertical gardens enhance the building's visual appeal and ecological performance.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The spiral layout allows for fluid connectivity between spaces, encouraging interaction and engagement. This design not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also addresses social needs by promoting a sense of communal ownership and belonging. By integrating renewable energy systems such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting, The Spiral Center sets a precedent for sustainable architectural practices in community settings.

In essence, The Spiral Center stands as a paradigm of how architecture can serve not just functional purposes but also enrich social dynamics within a community. Its innovative spaces create opportunities for people to gather, learn, and interact, aligning with the overarching principles of ecological mindfulness and communal living. The thoughtful blend of traditional materials and sustainable technology further exemplifies how contemporary design can pay tribute to a site's cultural heritage while addressing modern needs.

To gain a deeper understanding of this project, including details on architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Engaging with these materials can provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas that define The Spiral Center, illuminating the thoughtful processes that underpin this significant community-focused endeavor.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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