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Elevated Living Spaces With Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Integration Along the Tiber River

Author:
Maja Mawusi
Elevated Living Spaces With Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Integration Along the Tiber River

Project in-detail

Elevated units clad in charred wooden shingles harmoniously merge with sustainable timber construction, offering a resilient community living solution along the banks of the Tiber River.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated units feature charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
The project incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural stability while reducing carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for better water drainage and natural ventilation, enhancing indoor comfort.
04
Community spaces are integrated along the waterfront to promote social interaction and interaction with nature.
05
Innovative stormwater management systems are designed to direct excess water flow away from living areas, ensuring safety during flooding events.
The architectural project "Living on the Edge" presents a thoughtful and innovative design approach that responds effectively to the unique challenges posed by the location along the Tiber River in Rome, Italy. This project represents a seamless integration of sustainable living with environmental considerations, focusing on the dual challenges of urbanization and climate change.

The architectural design emphasizes resilience in the face of flooding, a growing concern in urban areas, particularly for cities situated near water bodies. The project envisions a living environment that not only mitigates the risks associated with flooding but also enhances the quality of urban life for its residents and the surrounding community. It does this by redefining how we think about interaction with the natural water systems, suggesting that instead of viewing these elements merely as risks, we can embrace them as opportunities for creative architecture.

"Living on the Edge" encompasses a diverse range of living spaces, designed primarily for communal living. The project features distinct clusters of co-living units that support both shared functionality and individual privacy. The design is organized into comprehensive clusters that accommodate 35 or 70 residents, promoting a shared lifestyle that encourages social interaction. Each cluster includes communal kitchens, open-air patios, and adaptable common areas that can serve various community functions, from social gatherings to co-working spaces.

Important elements of the project include the open-air promenades along the riverside, which not only enhance accessibility to the water but also serve as social hubs for residents and visitors alike. These promenades invite the community to engage with their environment actively, fostering a sense of belonging and collective responsibility for the natural resources surrounding them. The project aims to strengthen community ties while providing a safe and engaging living experience that promotes civic participation.

The architectural design also places a strong emphasis on resilience strategies. The elevated living spaces are a notable feature that directly address flooding concerns. By raising the units above projected flood levels, the design safeguards residents and allows for the natural ebb and flow of the river to occur without infringing on daily life. Additionally, integrated water management systems are incorporated, which facilitate the redirection of excess water away from residential areas, further exemplifying the project’s commitment to sustainability.

In terms of materials, the project utilizes a combination of concrete and sustainable timber, reflecting a balance between durability and environmental responsibility. These materials not only anchor the design in its context but also contribute to energy efficiency through features such as green roofs, which help with stormwater management and insulation. Each material selection has been made with careful consideration of its environmental impact, promoting a circular economy that prioritizes resource sustainability.

What sets "Living on the Edge" apart is its unique approach to integrating urban architecture with the natural environment. This project invites a shift in perception regarding urban waterways, encouraging communities to view them as assets rather than liabilities. The design thus transcends simple housing solutions, establishing a framework for adaptive urban living that is in tune with environmental demands and community needs. It makes a compelling case for a future where architecture plays a proactive role in fostering resilience and connection.

For those interested in understanding the intricate elements of this project, including architectural plans and sections, a closer examination of the architectural designs and ideas presented will yield invaluable insights. The thoughtful interplay between architecture, function, and the environment in "Living on the Edge" offers a relevant perspective on contemporary urban planning and sustainable living. Exploring this project further will provide a deeper appreciation for its design ethos and innovative solutions.
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MICROHOME
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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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