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Community-focused residence featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood for sustainable living

Author:
Timothy Wong
Community-focused residence featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wood for sustainable living

Project in-detail

This architectural venture redefines urban living through a harmonious blend of cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles, creating a community-centric space that fosters social interaction while embracing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The incorporation of cross-laminated timber panels significantly reduces carbon footprint while enhancing structural stability.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide a distinctive aesthetic but also increase durability and weather resistance.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes space efficiency while maximizing natural light penetration throughout the residence.
04
Communal engagement spaces are thoughtfully integrated within the layout, encouraging neighborly interactions and community building.
05
The project features green roofs that support urban biodiversity and contribute to stormwater management.
The architectural project under analysis represents a thoughtful approach to social housing, designed to foster community interaction while addressing the pressing need for quality living spaces in urban contexts. This project reflects a comprehensive design philosophy, focusing on creating an environment that not only meets the housing requirements of residents but also encourages their engagement with one another.

The primary function of this architectural endeavor is to provide affordable housing options while integrating public spaces that enhance social ties within the community. The layout is intentionally crafted to promote accessibility and inclusiveness. With a mix of housing typologies, including medium-rise units and townhouses, the design offers various living arrangements suitable for diverse family structures and lifestyle needs. These configurations allow residents to choose a home that best fits their circumstances, reinforcing the project's adaptability.

One of the project's notable aspects is its emphasis on communal spaces. The central plaza acts as a focal point for community activities, serving as a venue for performances, gatherings, and informal meetings. This design choice reflects a strong commitment to community-building, enabling residents to come together in a shared environment that nurtures social cohesion. The inclusion of playgrounds, green areas, and leisure zones complements this vision by promoting active lifestyles and providing areas for relaxation.

Attention to materiality also plays a crucial role in the overall design. Common materials such as concrete, wood, and glass are harmoniously integrated into the facade and interior spaces. Concrete provides necessary structural support while allowing for clean, modern lines. Wood adds a tactile dimension that enhances warmth and human scale, making public and private spaces feel more inviting. Glass elements are strategically placed to maximize natural light and visual connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces, contributing to an open and airy atmosphere.

The project exemplifies unique design approaches by addressing the relationship between private and communal living. Single-loaded corridors are used to increase the flow of natural light into residential units while fostering casual interactions among neighbors. Balconies extend this living space outdoors, providing personal retreats that are still connected to the communal fabric, encouraging a sense of belonging.

Moreover, sustainability is woven into the project’s core. The incorporation of green roofs and eco-friendly materials serves not only environmental purposes but also enhances the aesthetic quality of the structures. This deliberate approach to ecological design underscores the project’s commitment to creating a living environment that supports both the residents’ well-being and the local ecology.

The architectural ideas embodied in this project showcase a responsive and socially aware design. By prioritizing communal spaces, sustainable practices, and a varied housing typology, the project not only meets functional needs but also promotes a vibrant community life. It allows residents to thrive in a supportive environment that encourages interaction and fosters a sense of place.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate the thought processes behind the project. Engaging with these elements can provide valuable insights into how the design achieves its objectives and why it stands as a relevant example of contemporary architecture addressing social housing challenges.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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