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Community Living Space Emphasizing Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles for Sustainable Design

Authors:
Ahmet sefa Öztürk, Muzaffer korcan Özbek, Samed Doğan, Deniz Cavlak
Community Living Space Emphasizing Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles for Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Nestled in a rural setting, this community living space masterfully integrates cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, creating a welcoming environment that fosters social interaction while embracing sustainability and natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The project incorporates an underground chapel, providing a serene space for reflection and community gatherings that is seamlessly integrated within the structure.
02
A central courtyard serves as the focal point for social interactions, designed to host a variety of community events and activities.
03
Community gardens are thoughtfully integrated into the design, promoting sustainable practices and encouraging residents to engage in gardening and food cultivation.
04
The extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels enhances structural efficiency while reducing the overall carbon footprint of the building.
05
Charred wooden shingles are employed for exterior cladding, providing not only aesthetic appeal but also increased durability and fire resistance.
The AGORA architectural project presents a thoughtful approach to modern communal living, bringing together elements of design that prioritize interaction, sustainability, and a strong sense of community. Located in a rural context, the project exemplifies a merging of sociocultural values with environmental consciousness, creating a space that accommodates various lifestyles while nurturing connections among its users.

At its core, AGORA functions as a communal living space that emphasizes both privacy and social engagement. The design reflects an intention to create a neighborhood that thrives on interaction, where residents can seamlessly transition between their private living areas and communal spaces designed for gathering and shared activities. This concept is anchored in the idea of fostering a living environment that resonates with the historical significance of public spaces like the ancient Greek agora, where people gathered to exchange ideas and build relationships.

Key components of the AGORA project include a central courtyard, community gardens, a distinct tower for vertical circulation, and integrated spaces such as a library and chapel. The courtyard serves as the focal point of the project, designed to host social activities and gatherings, thus reinforcing the sense of community. This area encourages residents to engage with one another and participate in events, generating an atmosphere of inclusivity.

The community gardens are another vital aspect of AGORA, allowing residents to cultivate their own plants and vegetables. These areas not only enhance the ecological aspect of the project but also promote a sense of stewardship and self-sufficiency among the residents. The integration of nature into the living environment is a significant design choice, reflecting the project’s commitment to sustainability.

The architectural design features a distinctive tower that serves multiple functions, including providing vertical circulation and housing the chapel within its underground levels. This feature not only acts as a structural element but also as a beacon for the community, inviting residents and visitors to explore its space and participate in the spiritual activities offered within.

Material selection is crucial to the project’s identity and functionality. The use of wood throughout the construction brings warmth and a natural aesthetic that connects the interiors with the surrounding environment. Stone is utilized as a foundational material, contributing to a sense of stability and permanence that is fundamental to the project’s character. Meanwhile, extensive use of glass allows for ample natural lighting, enhancing the overall ambiance and creating a seamless connection between indoors and outdoors.

AGORA adopts unique design approaches that emphasize the interplay between public and private realms. The layout takes cues from traditional neighborhood configurations, ensuring that common spaces are easily accessible while still allowing for the privacy of individual units. This balance is further amplified by flexible room designs that accommodate both quiet moments and vibrant community activities.

Architecturally, the project stands out through its holistic design strategy, which considers both community needs and environmental impacts. By incorporating green roofs and vertical gardens, AGORA not only contributes to ecological sustainability but also enriches the user experience, encouraging residents to engage with their environment actively.

To explore the AGORA project further and gain deeper insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to delve into the project presentation. This resource will provide additional details that highlight the careful consideration and deliberate choices made throughout the design process, reflecting the intent to create a truly integrated community space.
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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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