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Crafted Spaces: Integrating Expanded Cork and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Community Hub

Author:
Olav Van der doorn
Crafted Spaces: Integrating Expanded Cork and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating expanded cork alongside cross-laminated timber, this sustainably designed community hub creates a warm, inviting space that fosters connection and interaction among its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes expanded cork for insulation, enhancing energy efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural strength and aesthetic warmth throughout the interior.
03
Incorporates a central courtyard designed to encourage community interaction and outdoor activities.
04
Employs natural mortar in the construction, ensuring a connection between the building and its surroundings.
05
Adopted a bent A-frame design that maximizes space while creating an inviting atmosphere.
The Cork House is an exemplary architectural project located in a picturesque region of Italy, showcasing a thoughtful blend of sustainable practices and innovative design principles. At its core, the project stands as a testament to eco-friendly architecture, deeply rooted in a commitment to environmental stewardship and the revitalization of existing materials. The design seeks not only to create a space for living and gathering but also to foster a sense of community through shared experiences in a harmonious environment.

The function of The Cork House is multi-faceted, accommodating both private residences and communal areas. It is designed to support social interaction while providing comfortable living conditions. The layout incorporates ample communal spaces, such as a lounge and tasting room, all oriented towards a central courtyard that serves as the heart of the project. This courtyard is a pivotal design element, inviting residents and visitors to engage with one another and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

A notable aspect of The Cork House is its materiality, characterized by the predominant use of cork. As a renewable resource derived from the cork oak tree, cork serves as the foundation of the architectural design, chosen for its insulation properties and sustainability. The project also effectively employs cross-laminated timber (CLT), which not only enhances structural integrity but also contributes to the building's aesthetic warmth. Recycled composite framing further emphasizes the project’s dedication to sustainability, while flax insulation offers an eco-friendly alternative to conventional materials, optimizing thermal performance.

The design of The Cork House embodies a variety of unique approaches, beginning with the seamless integration of the structure within its landscape. Organic forms characterize the building, establishing a dialogue between the architecture and its environment. The roof features a subtle undulating profile, effectively managing rainwater runoff while maintaining a cohesive visual effect with the surrounding landscape. This careful consideration of the building’s interaction with natural elements underlines an architectural narrative focused on sustainability and functionality.

Interior spaces within The Cork House reflect the same principles of warmth and connectivity present throughout the project. The careful arrangement of public and private areas promotes both community engagement and personal retreat. The choice of materials, including natural wood finishes and strategically placed windows, promotes a feeling of comfort and connection to the outdoors, while maintaining a balanced scale that feels inviting and human-centered.

The implementation of adaptive reuse principles also stands out in The Cork House. By transforming an existing structure and combining it with new elements, the project preserves historical context while meeting contemporary needs. This approach not only saves resources but also respects the architectural heritage of the area, blending the old with the new in a meaningful way.

In summary, The Cork House exemplifies modern architecture's potential to harmonize sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. Its innovative use of materials, thoughtful spatial organization, and community-focused design resonate with current trends in sustainable architecture. Readers interested in a deeper understanding of this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs further to gain insights into the unique ideas that shape The Cork House. The thoughtful integration of nature and community in this architectural project highlights the ongoing evolution of environmentally conscious design in contemporary architecture.
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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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