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Elevated Walkways and Charred Wooden Shingles in Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Dietrich Kroecker, Viktoria Esenina
Elevated Walkways and Charred Wooden Shingles in Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Elevated walkways integrated with charred wooden shingles create an inviting atmosphere that fosters community interaction in a thoughtfully designed residential setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a unique Walking Belvedere that enhances connectivity and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide a distinctive weather-resistant exterior while contributing to the project's aesthetic appeal.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used extensively throughout the structures, promoting sustainability and superior thermal performance.
04
The bent A-frame design creates dynamic interior spaces, maximizing volume and natural light within each home.
05
Centralized multifunction spaces are designed to encourage social interactions and community gatherings, enhancing the living experience.
The architectural design project "Above the Field" represents a thoughtful exploration of community-oriented living spaces that successfully bridges the gap between contemporary architecture and the natural environment. Located in a scenic region, the project embodies a philosophy aimed at enhancing social interactions and fostering a sense of belonging among residents. Its layout and architectural elements reflect a commitment to harmonizing built spaces with the landscape, promoting a sustainable and engaging lifestyle.

At its essence, "Above the Field" serves multiple functions. It is composed primarily of residential units, but these homes are strategically integrated around central communal spaces designed for collective use. This thoughtful arrangement emphasizes connectivity, allowing residents to engage with one another while also enjoying the beauty of their surroundings. The inclusion of semi-public and private zones creates an opportunity for varied interactions, supporting a lively community atmosphere.

The design incorporates an innovative circular layout, positioning residential areas around a central multifunction space. This central zone acts as a hub for community activities, enhancing the experience of shared living. The distinct residential typologies, which include single-person houses, houses for two, homes for families, and larger units for four, demonstrate versatility and adaptability, catering to a range of lifestyles and needs. Each typology has been meticulously planned for optimal functionality, with open floor plans that facilitate interaction, complemented by private areas that provide comfort and solitude.

The project’s material palette reflects a conscious choice to resonate with the environment. Key materials include wood, which adds warmth to the façade and grounds the architecture in a natural context. Concrete serves as a strong, durable base for the structures, while expansive glass windows invite natural light to permeate living spaces, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. Metal accents subtly enhance the contemporary aesthetic, bridging the gap between natural and industrial.

A standout feature of "Above the Field" is the elevated "Walking Belvedere," an innovative pathway that connects various residential units while offering panoramic views of the landscape. This walkway not only eases movement within the site but also fosters a sense of community by encouraging residents to explore their surroundings. The incorporation of an observation tower further enriches the project, providing an elevated platform for reflection and engagement with the environmental context.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The emphasis on openness and connectivity deviates from traditional residential layouts, encouraging a more communal lifestyle. The architectural decisions reflect a deep understanding of space utilization, ensuring that every element serves a purpose while enhancing the overall experience. The project also prioritizes sustainability, using materials and designs that promote energy efficiency and harmony with nature.

"Above the Field" stands out as a model of thoughtful architecture, illustrating how design can facilitate community living while respecting the environment. The interplay between its physical elements and the philosophical foundation creates a space where residents can thrive in a balanced relationship with one another and the landscape. For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this project, it is highly beneficial to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs that underpin "Above the Field." Engaging with these materials provides a richer understanding of the innovative ideas and careful considerations that define this compelling project.
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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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