Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Exploring Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Shingles In A Community-Centric Workspace Design

Authors:
Yan Jun Chin, Xue Peng
Exploring Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Shingles In A Community-Centric Workspace Design

Project in-detail

Cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles come together to form a flexible workspace that prioritizes community engagement while enhancing natural light and fostering collaboration.
5 key facts about this project
01
The central courtyard serves as a dynamic hub for social interaction and collaborative events.
02
Sustainable materials include locally sourced cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light while reducing energy consumption.
04
Modular workspace layouts allow for easy reconfiguration based on team needs.
05
Integrated acoustic solutions ensure optimal sound management in shared areas.

The "Belonging Workspace" is located in the city center of Berlin and represents a contemporary approach to workplace design. The project addresses the evolving needs of a diverse workforce by emphasizing inclusivity, flexibility, and community engagement. It aims to create a functional environment that reflects the dynamics of modern work, particularly in the context of remote and hybrid models.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The architectural design features a circular layout that fosters connectivity among the workspace areas. Central to this configuration is a courtyard that serves as a hub for social interaction, linking various modules through circular staircases. This arrangement promotes fluid movement while accommodating both collaborative and individual work styles. Distinct zones are designed for dedicated remote workspaces and shared areas for on-site employees, ensuring that users can engage comfortably and effectively according to their professional needs.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Sustainability is a critical focus of the project, with materials chosen to enhance both environmental responsibility and user comfort. Timber is utilized extensively for structural components, providing warmth and a reduced ecological footprint. Generous glass facades facilitate abundant natural light while visually connecting indoor spaces to the outdoor environment. Acoustic curtains are strategically integrated to maintain sound balance within shared areas, enhancing concentration. Additionally, green terraces within the design support employee well-being by incorporating nature into the workspace, reinforcing the project’s commitment to a healthy work environment.

The location and design of the "Belonging Workspace" are informed by Berlin's vibrant urban context, facilitating a blend of architectural innovation and cultural richness. This approach not only addresses current workplace demands but also sets a precedent for future developments in collaborative environments.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy