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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Shingles Define This Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Emmanouil Christakis, Katerini Kouni
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Shingles Define This Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, this community hub captures the essence of sustainable design while fostering social interaction and engagement among its users.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the roof design for irrigation.
02
Features a biophilic approach with extensive greenery woven throughout the communal spaces.
03
Incorporates local brickwork that reflects the cultural heritage of the surrounding area.
04
Employs passive solar strategies, including strategically placed overhangs for optimal light control.
05
Includes modular interactive spaces that can be adapted for various community activities.
The architectural project under review represents a thoughtful engagement with its surroundings, exemplifying a harmony between functionality and aesthetic appeal. This design concept is rooted in a deep understanding of its geographical context, addressing not just the immediate environment but also the cultural and social fabric of the location. The architecture serves as a multifaceted space, designed to accommodate diverse activities while providing a seamless experience for its users.

At the core of the project is the function it aims to fulfill. Designed as a community hub, the structure fosters social interactions and promotes communal activities. The layout is organized to facilitate a flow of movement, allowing visitors to easily navigate between different areas, such as gathering spaces, educational facilities, and leisure zones. This thoughtful organization is crucial for enabling a vibrant atmosphere where community members can engage with one another, attend events, or simply spend time in a shared environment.

The architectural design is characterized by a balanced relationship between open and enclosed spaces. Large windows and open areas invite natural light, creating a warm and welcoming environment. This effective use of daylight not only enhances the aesthetic quality of internal spaces but also reduces energy consumption, aligning with contemporary sustainability goals. The integration of outdoor areas, such as gardens or terraces, further extends the usable space, encouraging occupants to connect with nature and promoting well-being through interaction with the elements.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project, influencing both its character and sustainability. The design employs a combination of local materials, such as brick, wood, and glass, which not only resonate with the surrounding landscape but also reflect the cultural heritage of the region. The choice of materials provides durability while ensuring the structure can withstand local environmental conditions. Additionally, the use of recycled or sustainably sourced materials highlights a commitment to environmental responsibility, which is increasingly important in modern architectural practices.

Unique design approaches are evident in several aspects of the project. The roof structure, for instance, is designed to collect rainwater, which is then used for irrigation of the gardens, demonstrating an innovative incorporation of sustainable practices into everyday functionality. Furthermore, the building’s façade is designed to respond to solar orientation, with shading devices that minimize heat gain while maximizing views to the outside. This level of attentiveness to both environmental factors and user comfort distinguishes the project and enhances its overall effectiveness as a responsive piece of architecture.

Landscape design is also integral to the project. Surrounding green spaces not only complement the built environment but also serve as integral components of the architectural concept. These outdoor areas are designed to encourage social interaction and community activities, reflecting a broader vision of public space as an extension of the building itself. The landscaping thoughtfully integrates native species, enhancing biodiversity and reinforcing the relationship between the project and its ecological context.

As visitors engage with the architecture, they encounter an embodiment of thoughtful design principles that prioritize function while respecting the environment. This project presents an opportunity for its users to experience architecture that is not merely a backdrop, but an active participant in their daily lives. The careful calibration of light, space, and materiality will resonate with those who utilize the building and contributes to a sense of place and identity within the community.

For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of this architectural design, such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas, it is highly encouraged to explore the project presentation. Through detailed analysis and further exploration of these elements, one can appreciate the nuances and intentions embedded within this architectural endeavor. The invitation remains open to discover how this community-focused design shapes experiences and interactions for its users while offering a compelling model of contemporary architecture.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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