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Charred Wooden Shingles Integrate With Green Roof to Reimagine Urban Living

Authors:
Neritan Duka, Alin alexandru Ciobotaru
Charred Wooden Shingles Integrate With Green Roof to Reimagine Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a green roof, the design transforms noise from the adjacent railway into vibrant communal spaces, redefining urban housing functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetics and fire resistance.
02
A green roof doubles as a park, enhancing biodiversity and community space.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels streamline construction and reduce waste.
04
Vertical circulation elements foster connectivity within the living environment.
05
The design redirects railway noise into tranquil outdoor areas.
The architectural design project presented transforms an existing building into a multifaceted urban habitat, addressing both the need for housing and the surrounding environment's challenges. Situated in a dense urban area, the project exhibits a comprehensive approach to sustainability, community engagement, and innovative spatial design. It integrates new residential units with thoughtfully designed public spaces while enhancing the existing structure's natural light and acoustic performance.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the standout features of this project is its method of integrating a railway tunnel into the overall design. Rather than viewing the proximity to railway lines as a limitation, the project turns this challenge into an opportunity for green space. The roof of the newly created tunnel becomes a park, allowing residents to enjoy outdoor amenities while mitigating noise pollution. This unique adaptation illustrates a forward-thinking approach to urban issues, promoting a balance between nature and urban living.

The project further distinguishes itself through its strategic modifications to the building facade. By incorporating glass elements, the design maximizes transparency and light while creating a visual dialogue with the environment. This focus on light and materials not only enhances the aesthetic value of the structure but also creates a healthier living environment for residents. The careful consideration of window placements minimizes sound intrusion and enhances the overall user experience.

Vertical Growth and Community Integration

The architectural design includes vertical elements that serve both functional and social purposes. These features facilitate movement between different levels of the complex and encourage interactions among inhabitants. By incorporating residential units on the upper floors, the design optimally utilizes the available building footprint while effectively addressing urban housing demands. This approach promotes a more compact urban form, reducing sprawl and preserving surrounding landscapes.

The emphasis on communal spaces throughout the project fosters community interaction, responding to the increasing demand for social infrastructure in urban environments. By creating designated areas for public use, the design not only provides recreational opportunities but also strengthens community ties among residents.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, including detailed architectural plans and sections, explore the various facets of this design. Insights into the architectural ideas and decisions made during the design process can deepen appreciation for how functional aspects have been interwoven with aesthetic considerations. Reviewing these elements will provide valuable context and enhance your knowledge of contemporary architectural practices.
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MICROHOME
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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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