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Community center featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood for sustainable engagement

Authors:
Yelim Lee, Sangwoo Lim, Taehee Kim
Community center featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood for sustainable engagement

Project in-detail

This community center seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles into its design, creating a versatile space that fosters social interaction and respects the surrounding environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The building's bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light while maximizing structural stability.
02
Charred wooden shingles were employed not only for aesthetic appeal but also to enhance fire resistance and durability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels were sourced from local forests, supporting regional economies and reducing transportation emissions.
04
A rainwater harvesting system is integrated into the design, contributing to the center's sustainability and minimizing water consumption.
05
Native plant landscaping surrounds the facility, fostering local biodiversity and providing habitat for wildlife.
The architectural design project under analysis presents a cohesive synthesis of space and function, designed to address the current needs and aesthetic preferences of its intended users. This project emphasizes the importance of creating environments that are not only visually appealing but also practical and conducive to the activities they house. Central to the design is the concept of integration with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the connection between the built environment and nature. By thoughtfully considering the relationship between the structure and its location, the design fosters a deep sense of place that resonates with its users.

The primary function of the project serves as a multifunctional space that accommodates diverse activities, catering to both communal and private needs. This duality in functionality informs many design decisions, resulting in an adaptable framework that is capable of supporting a range of events and uses. The layout is meticulously organized to facilitate circulation and interaction among visitors while providing secluded areas for reflection or individual use.

In terms of materiality, the project employs a carefully selected palette that enhances its design language. Local materials form the backbone of this architectural endeavor, showcasing the area's unique geological and cultural heritage. The inclusion of materials such as reclaimed wood, natural stone, glass, and sustainable composites reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship and durability, aligning the project with contemporary sustainable design practices. Each material has been chosen not only for its aesthetic properties but also for its performance characteristics, ensuring the structure’s longevity and minimal maintenance requirements.

Key architectural details include expansive windows that optimize natural light, creating an inviting and warm atmosphere indoors. These large apertures also facilitate cross-ventilation, promoting airflow throughout the building and reducing reliance on mechanical climate control systems. The roof design features overhangs that provide shade and protection from the elements while contributing to the overall silhouette of the building, which is both modern and understated.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project's execution, particularly in the way it addresses environmental concerns and local climate conditions. By integrating passive design strategies, such as thermal mass and orientation, the architecture seeks to minimize energy consumption, illustrating a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes ecological responsibility. Additionally, the landscaping surrounding the project is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, with native plants selected to enhance biodiversity while reducing irrigation needs.

The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces is a focal point of the design philosophy. The project includes accessible outdoor areas that encourage social engagement and community participation, showcasing an understanding of the social dynamics that architecture can foster. This fluid transition between spaces not only enhances the user experience but also underscores the project's commitment to inclusivity.

As an architectural expression, the project stands out for its thoughtful integration of form and function, as well as its response to site-specific challenges. Every aspect of the design has been considered to increase usability while offering a meaningful sense of place. This distinctive approach to architecture invites viewers to contemplate not only the built environment but also how it interacts with its surroundings.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of this project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will provide valuable insights into the methodologies employed and the philosophical underpinnings that shape its conception. Engaging with these materials will enhance your understanding of architecture's role in creating spaces that are both functional and enriching.
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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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