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Curvilinear Forms and Charred Wooden Shingles Defining a Community Space

Author:
Sophie Jeanine Catherine Berthelier
Curvilinear Forms and Charred Wooden Shingles Defining a Community Space

Project in-detail

Defined by curvilinear forms and the use of charred wooden shingles, the design fosters community engagement while providing versatile exhibition spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear forms harmonize with the urban landscape, creating a distinct architectural identity.
02
Extensive use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a textured aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability and structural efficiency.
04
A flexible interior layout allows for diverse cultural events and community activities.
05
Landscaped areas integrate natural elements, promoting biodiversity and outdoor engagement.

### Overview

The project is situated in an urban environment dominated by high-rise buildings, intended to serve as a cultural and exhibition center that fosters community engagement and artistic expression. The design concept integrates contemporary architectural practices with the local cultural context, aiming to create a venue that reflects and enhances community interactions.

### Spatial Dynamics

The architectural approach emphasizes organic forms that emerge from the surrounding landscape, presenting a striking contrast to the rigid grid of nearby structures. Asymmetrical shapes and gentle curves define the building's silhouette, offering visual dynamism from multiple vantage points. The layout is intentionally non-linear, facilitating a fluid flow between various exhibits and communal areas to encourage exploration and engagement.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A thoughtful selection of materials reinforces both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. Wood is prominently featured throughout, contributing warmth and a connection to nature. Large expanses of glass create transparency, enhancing the indoor-outdoor relationship and allowing natural light to permeate the interior, reducing the need for artificial lighting. Metal elements provide structural integrity and a contemporary aesthetic, while also facilitating intricate design details. This material palette, combined with the integration of green spaces, not only underscores environmental sustainability but also prioritizes the well-being of its users.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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