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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Form a Spiraled Collective Space for Community Engagement

Author:
Alexandre Karpov
Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Form a Spiraled Collective Space for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and adorned with charred wooden shingles, this spiraled community center seamlessly merges with its natural surroundings to foster social interaction and collective engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a spiraled design that enhances natural light and panoramic views.
02
Constructed with locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
03
Features a sustainable rooftop garden that supports urban agriculture initiatives.
04
Flexible interior spaces designed to accommodate diverse community activities.
05
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
The SPIRALA community center represents a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture that emphasizes communal interaction, sustainability, and harmony with the surrounding environment. This project is meticulously designed to serve as a hub for various community activities, fostering a sense of belonging and collective engagement. The core concept of the design revolves around a spiral motif, symbolizing continuity and growth, which resonates with the dynamics of community life.

The architectural design conveys a message of openness and inclusivity. The structure has been conceived to embrace its natural setting, with key layout features that accommodate different functions, from educational workshops to social gatherings. This functionality is achieved through flexible internal spaces that enable the center to adapt to the community's diverse needs. Each area is designed with a specific purpose and flow in mind, enabling multiple activities to occur simultaneously without conflict.

Key elements of the design include the strategic use of local materials, such as stone and timber, which ground the project in its geographical context while promoting sustainability. The structural steel frame is paired with extensive glazing, allowing natural light to permeate the interior, thus enhancing the overall ambiance. This thoughtful material selection reflects a commitment to environmental sensitivity and local craftsmanship, ensuring that the building harmonizes with its surroundings while providing durability and aesthetic appeal.

The exterior form of the community center is particularly noteworthy. The spiraled structure offers an engaging visual interplay with the landscape, creating a unique silhouette against the skyline. The design encourages exploration through its inviting pathways and integrated landscaping, which extends the usable space outdoors. The garden roof not only adds ecological value but also serves as an outdoor activity area, supporting community gardening initiatives and recreational opportunities.

Internally, the layout is organized to foster social gatherings and informal interactions. This is achieved through the inclusion of shared facilities such as a communal kitchen and restrooms, strategically located to ensure ease of access for patrons. The arrangement of spaces highlights openness, with sightlines that connect different areas, promoting flow and encouraging engagement among users. Areas designated for learning and workshops are thoughtfully designed with adaptable furnishings, allowing for easy reconfiguration based on user requirements.

One of the unique design approaches seen in this project is the integration of natural light as a primary defining element. The building’s extensive glass features not only enhance visibility but also create an ever-changing play of light that affects moods and atmospheres throughout the day. This connection to the natural environment is further emphasized by the interior finishes, which utilize natural materials to maintain a warm and inviting aesthetic.

Furthermore, the site planning reflects consideration of the outdoor environment, reinforcing the community center's role as a beacon for social gathering. The thoughtfully landscaped surroundings are designed as an extension of the interior spaces, encouraging outdoor community activities and reflecting a holistic approach to the project’s design ethos.

In summary, the SPIRALA community center stands as a well-conceived architectural project that prioritizes community interaction through its innovative design. The project effectively utilizes space, materials, and natural light to create a welcoming environment that encourages engagement and fosters a sense of community. For those interested in exploring the project's architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs, a closer examination of the presentation is encouraged to gain deeper insights into this thoughtfully designed community asset.
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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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