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Charred Wooden Shingles Frame Affordable Housing Within Urban Roundabouts

Author:
Maher H
Charred Wooden Shingles Frame Affordable Housing Within Urban Roundabouts

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and precast modular units, the design transforms urban roundabouts into affordable housing solutions that foster community engagement and sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Precast modular units allow for rapid assembly and reduced construction waste.
03
Roundabout locations promote increased community interaction and accessibility.
04
Green roofs contribute to local biodiversity and energy efficiency in the buildings.
05
Each housing unit features flexible layouts to accommodate diverse living arrangements.
This architectural project represents a thoughtful and innovative response to the housing challenges faced in London, a city characterized by high-density living and soaring property prices. The focus is on transforming existing urban infrastructure, specifically roundabouts, into viable housing solutions that not only serve residential needs but enhance the urban landscape. The project is fundamentally about creating affordable homes while promoting community connection and sustainability.

The design employs a unique architectural approach, framing the roundabout as both a functional and aesthetic element of urban living. The conceptual basis of the project highlights two distinct designs: The Sand Dollar and The Lion of Housing. Each design is rooted in the intention of offering adaptable living spaces that facilitate community engagement and cooperation among residents. The Sand Dollar design particularly emphasizes establishing visual and physical continuity with the surrounding environment, presenting residences organized around a central hub that encourages neighborly interaction. The Lion of Housing embraces the integration of community identity through architectural features that celebrate the locality's culture and heritage while responding directly to the needs of residents.

Functionally, the project seeks to address the pressing demand for affordable housing by maximizing the utilization of typically underused roundabout spaces. By rethinking these areas as potential housing sites, the design challenges traditional notions of urban space and opens up new possibilities for living arrangements. Each unit's design aims to accommodate diverse lifestyles, ranging from compact studio apartments to larger family homes, fostering an inclusive community identity. The project is also committed to enhancing accessibility, situating residences near public transport links while ensuring ample pedestrian pathways leading to essential community services.

The material selection is pivotal to the project, embodying a commitment to sustainability and architectural integrity. Precast modular units allow for efficient construction processes, while recycled wood formwork ensures environmentally responsible building practices. The integration of glass facades not only enhances natural light but also strengthens the connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The use of green roof systems contributes to biodiversity and urban ecology, while low-VOC paint finishes support healthier living spaces. Water conservation is addressed with sensor-based fixtures that promote efficiency.

Unique design strategies further reinforce the project's intent of fostering community interaction and ecological balance. The configurational dynamics of the roundabout serve as an ideal setting for creating communal spaces that invite socializing. Central courtyards and shared amenities allow residents to engage with each other, thereby cultivating a sense of belonging. Moreover, the architectural language employed in both designs respects the urban context while introducing expressive forms that resonate with the character of the surroundings.

The project thoughtfully integrates elements such as view corridors, ensuring that homes benefit from the visual richness of their environment and maintain connectivity with neighboring structures. The careful consideration of landscaping and public art invites a dialogue between the built environment and its natural context, creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and community bonding.

Overall, this architectural project presents a comprehensive solution to the housing challenges of contemporary urban life in London. It leverages the potential of overlooked spaces and addresses both social and environmental concerns in the design process. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas, plans, and sections that inform this project, further exploration of its presentation would offer valuable insights into its innovative approach to modern urban living.
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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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