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Crafted Timber Structures Featuring Tenon and Mortise Joints Foster Community Interaction in Urban Spaces

Authors:
Jing Xv, Shuyi Li
Crafted Timber Structures Featuring Tenon and Mortise Joints Foster Community Interaction in Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

Employing traditional tenon and mortise joints alongside sustainably sourced timber, the design redefines urban public spaces as inviting hubs for community interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates traditional tenon and mortise joints, emphasizing craftsmanship in modern application.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural integrity while reducing environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and create a visually appealing weathered finish.
04
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration, fostering a welcoming atmosphere.
05
Every space is designed for adaptability, encouraging community-driven uses and engagements.
The Urban Sun Mao project is an architectural endeavor focused on reimagining public spaces within urban contexts. It embodies a response to the challenges of modern city life, emphasizing the need for social interaction in environments that frequently foster isolation. The project serves multiple functions by creating micro-public service systems designed to facilitate community engagement, which is increasingly vital in today’s urban landscapes filled with technological distractions.

This project represents a fusion of traditional architectural techniques and contemporary needs. By employing the tenon-and-mortise joint, a classic method rooted in Chinese architectural history, it establishes a cultural continuity that honors historical practices while serving modern functionalities. The architecture not only stands as a physical structure but also as a cultural statement, highlighting the importance of shared spaces that can act as catalysts for social interaction.

The design incorporates various important elements crafted to enhance the user experience. The layout prioritizes adaptability, with spaces that can be reconfigured to suit different community activities, such as reading rooms, informal meeting spots, and collaborative areas. This versatility is crucial in responding to the fluctuating dynamics and desires of urban dwellers. Moreover, the arrangement of volumes creates a dynamic flow, allowing for varied perspectives while promoting movement and interaction among users.

Material selection plays an integral role in the project, contributing not just to the visual aesthetic but also to the functionality and sustainability of the design. Wood is predominant, reflecting a deep-rooted connection to craftsmanship while offering warmth that attracts users. Glass is utilized extensively, bridging the divide between interior and exterior environments and ensuring ample natural light, which contributes to a welcoming atmosphere. The inclusion of steel and composites provides structural integrity while allowing for creative freedom in design, enabling unique forms and layouts to come to life. Rubber strips are also strategically integrated for waterproofing, ensuring the longevity and durability of joints and materials in varied weather conditions.

A unique aspect of the Urban Sun Mao project is its focus on community activation through architecture. By transforming underutilized urban spaces into vibrant locales, the project seeks to engage residents actively. This is achieved through thoughtful design that encourages participation, such as open seating arrangements and interactive spaces where users can convene around shared interests.

Throughout its design, the Urban Sun Mao project reflects a consideration for both environmental and social sustainability. Its aim goes beyond mere architectural solutions; it addresses the broader implications of urban living by creating opportunities for community engagement and interaction. Every detail, from the materials used to the spatial organization, is carefully crafted to support these objectives.

In addition to the thought-provoking design, prospective readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural elements of the project. Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide greater insights into its conceptual and functional dimensions. By engaging with these detailed representations, one can appreciate how the project not only redefines public spaces but also embodies a commitment to fostering community interactions in our increasingly complex urban environments.
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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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