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Layered Concrete Facade with Expansive Glass and Timber Integration for Community Engagement

Author:
Denis Milani Adriano
Layered Concrete Facade with Expansive Glass and Timber Integration for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

The layered concrete facade and expansive glass elements create a dialogue with the surrounding landscape, while carefully integrated timber framing supports flexible community spaces designed for diverse activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Layered concrete facade enhances thermal performance while providing a modern appearance.
02
Expansive glass panels blur the boundary between indoor and outdoor spaces.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength with reduced environmental impact.
04
Charred wooden shingles contribute to weather resistance and fire safety.
05
Tiered landscaping integrates seamlessly with the building’s multi-level design.

### Project Overview

Located in an urban context, the contemporary multi-purpose structure emphasizes a cohesive relationship between functionality and aesthetic appeal. The design is characterized by a modernist approach that prioritizes clean lines and open spaces, facilitating both accessibility and interaction within the environment. The integration of a tiered staircase addresses the site's topographical challenges, creating a fluid transition between different elevations.

### Materiality and Construction

The choice of materials in the project is instrumental in both structural support and visual impact. Concrete masonry units form a significant portion of the façade, providing durability and requiring minimal maintenance. Expansive glass panels enhance transparency and allow natural light to permeate interior spaces, fostering a connection to the exterior landscape. The introduction of treated timber in handrails and framing softens the industrial element of concrete, achieving a balance between organic warmth and modern design. Paving stones at the entrance and staircase ensure robust pedestrian access while visually aligning with the broader architectural language.

### Spatial Organization and Connectivity

The innovative tiered staircase serves both practical and aesthetic functions, encouraging exploration around the building. Designed to maximize natural light and views, the structure's orientation enhances the user experience. An open-plan layout supports flexible use for various activities, promoting social interaction and community engagement. The integration of green spaces around the structure further highlights a deliberate intent to blend built forms with natural environments, offering a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor areas.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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