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Community Hub Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles

Authors:
Vegard Elseth, Karlis Kukainis
Community Hub Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles

Project in-detail

This community hub seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles to create a welcoming space that fosters connections while promoting sustainable practices through its thoughtful design and natural materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The structure utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance both strength and thermal efficiency, reducing energy consumption.
02
Charred wooden shingles not only provide a distinctive visual texture but also serve as a fire-resistant feature, improving safety.
03
A unique bent A-frame design allows for expansive interior spaces while maintaining a compact footprint, maximizing usability on the site.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems are designed to collect and reuse water, supporting the project’s sustainability goals.
05
The landscaping includes native plant species that require minimal irrigation, further contributing to the environmental sensitivity of the project.
This architectural project exemplifies a thoughtful integration of form and function. Nestled within its geographical context, the design reflects a deep understanding of the local environment while addressing the particular needs of its intended users. The architecture serves not just as a physical structure but as a manifestation of community values and cultural identity.

At its core, the project aims to foster a sense of place and belonging. The building is designed to accommodate a variety of activities, making it a multifaceted space that is both accessible and welcoming. Its primary function is to serve the community, whether as a gathering space, an educational facility, or a hub for cultural exchange. Each aspect of the architecture is carefully considered to ensure that it facilitates interaction, promotes collaboration, and enhances the overall user experience.

A significant element of the design is its attention to materiality. The choice of materials reflects both aesthetic considerations and functional performance. By utilizing locally sourced materials, the project not only reduces its environmental footprint but also ties the structure more closely to its context. For instance, the use of natural stone and timber offers a warm, inviting quality while ensuring durability. Large expanses of glass allow for optimal natural light, creating a connection between interior spaces and the outer environment. These choices support sustainable practices and contribute to energy efficiency, positioning the project as an exemplar of contemporary eco-conscious architecture.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout various aspects of the project. One notable feature is the incorporation of flexible spaces that can adapt to different activities and user needs. This adaptability is achieved through movable partitions and multifunctional furniture, allowing for dynamic use of the space. Furthermore, various gathering points within the architecture are strategically placed to encourage social interactions among users.

Landscaping plays an essential role in the overall design, with outdoor spaces designed to be extensions of the indoor environment. Gardens, seating areas, and pathways are arranged to promote a seamless transition between nature and architecture. This emphasis on biophilic design nurtures a sense of well-being, fostering connections to nature and enhancing the overall experience for users.

The architectural layout is carefully organized to ensure smooth circulation throughout the building. Clear sightlines and intuitive pathways guide users effortlessly from one space to another, reducing congestion and enhancing usability. Key areas, such as entry points and communal spaces, are designed with a focus on accessibility, ensuring that everyone can comfortably engage with the architecture.

As an architectural project, it invites ongoing exploration and engagement with its design elements. Interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project by reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and various design iterations. By understanding these details, one can appreciate the thoughtfulness embedded in every aspect of the project and how it reflects broader architectural ideas and practices. For a comprehensive perspective on the design, exploring these architectural documents can provide valuable insights into its development and realization.
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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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