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Elevated Community Hub Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Author:
Wei Huang
Elevated Community Hub Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the elevated community hub redefines interaction and accessibility within the urban landscape, serving as a multifunctional space for social gatherings and events.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes multifunctional spaces adaptable for various community events and gatherings.
05
Strategically positioned to connect major transit routes with pedestrian pathways.

### Project Overview

Freedom Square, located in Kharkiv, Ukraine, is being reimagined to enhance its historical significance and functionality as a public space. The design encompasses three distinct yet interconnected components: Canopy, Wedge, and Belvedere, which collectively aim to promote interaction and foster community engagement. The intent is to create a dynamic environment that responds to contemporary urban needs while ensuring seamless integration with the existing urban fabric.

### Canopy as a Social Framework

The Canopy features a sweeping timber structure that provides ample shelter and creates an inviting atmosphere for various activities. Extending from key transportation nodes, it connects outdoor markets and gathering spaces, and it is primarily constructed from sustainable mass timber, emphasizing a commitment to environmental responsibility. The open framework design promotes social interaction, accommodating diverse user activities beneath its structure.

### Integrative Connectivity through the Wedge

Functioning as a structural connector, the Wedge links various urban elements and enhances public engagement through amenities and coworking spaces. While specific materials are not detailed, the design likely incorporates metal and glass, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. The Wedge supports a variety of purposes, including hosting events and daily interactions, offering a geometry that effectively delineates and secures communal areas.

### Elevated Perspectives in the Belvedere

The Belvedere is characterized by its elevated platform that provides sweeping views of the surrounding architecture, including the Regional Administrative Building. Utilizing high-performance glass and steel, this component facilitates transparent interaction with the environment and serves as a social gathering area. It fosters observation and community engagement, creating a direct link to public transportation.

### Engagement and Cultural Reflection

The project is distinguished by its adaptability and commitment to cultural heritage, incorporating features that allow for flexible use of space while promoting a vibrant urban life. Elements such as semi-outdoor markets and community gathering areas highlight a focus on public engagement. Furthermore, the design reflects local history by referencing significant cultural events, ensuring that the project resonates with the community it serves.

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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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