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Community Hub Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles in a Sustainable Urban Context

Author:
Giovanni Lenci
Community Hub Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles in a Sustainable Urban Context

Project in-detail

This community hub seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, creating a welcoming space that champions sustainability while enhancing connectivity within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project utilizes an innovative bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics and aesthetic appeal while optimizing structural efficiency.
02
Charred wooden shingles are employed not only for their protective qualities but also to create a distinctive visual texture that references traditional local building styles.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively, contributing to both carbon sequestration and rapid construction timelines due to their prefabricated nature.
04
Integrated green roofs host local flora, providing habitat for urban wildlife and promoting biodiversity in the surrounding area.
05
The design includes strategic daylight harvesting techniques, maximizing natural light throughout the interior while minimizing heat gain, thereby improving energy efficiency.
The architectural project at hand encapsulates a thoughtful interplay between functionality and aesthetic appeal, reflecting a nuanced understanding of contemporary design principles in its execution. This project serves as a multipurpose space, intended to accommodate various community needs while fostering interaction and connectivity among its users. Situated in a vibrant urban context, the project aims to enhance its surroundings by creating a coherent relationship between built and natural environments.

At the heart of the design lies a concept that emphasizes openness and transparency. Large windows and thoughtfully placed openings allow natural light to permeate the interiors, effectively blurring the boundaries between the indoor and outdoor spaces. This design choice not only enhances the user experience but promotes sustainability by reducing reliance on artificial lighting during the day. The overall layout is calculated to encourage movement and flow, with well-defined pathways that guide occupants through different areas of the building. Communal spaces are generously sized and strategically located to inspire gatherings and social interaction, supporting the building's function as a community hub.

The material palette employed in this project is a testament to a commitment to durability and environmental responsibility. Key materials include sustainably sourced timber, which is prominently featured in both structural and decorative elements, providing warmth and a tactile experience that complements the sleekness of glass and steel components. The use of concrete is also notable—a material chosen not only for its robustness but for its thermal mass properties, contributing to energy efficiency. The balance between these materials reflects a keen design sensibility, where each element plays a role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the building.

The architectural design incorporates innovative techniques that respond to the local climate. For instance, strategic overhangs and shading devices mitigate heat gain during peak sunlight hours, reducing the reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, green roofs and terraces are integrated into the design, promoting biodiversity and providing areas for recreational activities. These features underscore a holistic approach to architecture, where environmental considerations are woven into the fabric of the design.

Unique to this project is its focus on community engagement and inclusivity. It has been designed with easy accessibility in mind, accommodating individuals of all ages and abilities. Thoughtful details, such as ramps, wide corridors, and accessible restrooms, contribute to an inviting environment that prioritizes user experience. Moreover, art installations and local cultural elements are seamlessly integrated into the design, celebrating the identity of the community it serves.

The project stands as a reflection of contemporary architectural ideas that balance form, function, and environmental responsibility. Its thoughtful design outcomes not only cater to the immediate needs of users but also consider long-term sustainability and resilience. The result is an architectural endeavor that fosters a sense of belonging and encourages social interaction, ultimately enriching the urban fabric.

The narrative of this project is further explored through various architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail the meticulous thought process behind its execution. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into these elements to appreciate the full scope of ideas and innovations evidenced throughout this endeavor. Engaging with architectural documentation will provide further insight into the underlying principles that guide this project.
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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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