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Dynamic Shelter Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Elements for Community Engagement

Authors:
Gülşah Kahraman, Pınar Yazdıç, Gülsüm Katmer, Ayşin Poyraz
Dynamic Shelter Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Elements for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and accented by charred wooden shingles, the installation promotes community interaction through versatile seating and reading areas within a vibrant urban park.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural efficiency.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design that maximizes usable interior space.
04
Integrated bicycle storage within seating to promote sustainable transportation.
05
Dynamic shading elements adapt to changing environmental conditions for user comfort.
The architectural project titled "Open, Sesame!" serves as a multifunctional installation designed for an urban park. This project integrates various social and recreational elements, creating a cohesive space that encourages reading, interaction, and relaxation. The design utilizes innovative features to accommodate the diverse needs of users while promoting literacy within the community.

The project's central concept revolves around accessibility and discovery. It combines reading areas, benches, and bicycle parking into one unified structure that invites users to engage with both the environment and each other. This approach enhances urban livability by creating a welcoming atmosphere where individuals can express their interests and activities.

Integration of Functional Elements

"Open, Sesame!" distinguishes itself through its thoughtful integration of functional elements. The benches are designed not only for seating but also include secured storage for bicycles, promoting a practical solution for urban commuting. This dual-purpose design maximizes the utility of space while encouraging cycling as a sustainable mode of transport. The overhead kite designs add a playful element, further inviting exploration and engagement with the installation.

The use of materials is another critical aspect of the project. The incorporation of wood for seating and reading areas offers warmth and comfort, while metal provides structural stability and security features. Glass surfaces enhance natural light penetration, creating a transparent and open environment that fosters a sense of connectivity and ease among users.

User Interaction and Experience

The design prioritizes user interaction by creating versatile spaces that cater to both individual and communal activities. The arrangement of furniture allows for flexibility, enabling users to choose between solitary reading and socializing with others. This consideration of various user scenarios elevates the overall functionality of the installation, making it a vital resource for the community.

“Open, Sesame!” uses mechanisms that promote user engagement. The adjustable roofing elements provide shade and shelter, enhancing the usability of reading areas regardless of the weather. This adaptability ensures that the space remains relevant and functional throughout different seasons, fostering ongoing use and interaction.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, readers are encouraged to explore detailed architectural plans and sections. These documents provide further insights into the design's innovative approaches and specific architectural ideas that contribute to its unique presence in the urban landscape.
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MICROHOME
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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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