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Living Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Community-Centric Timber Structure

Author:
DAVIDE CELLINI
Living Walls and Natural Ventilation in a Community-Centric Timber Structure

Project in-detail

Incorporating living walls and natural ventilation, this community-oriented timber structure enhances urban living through its focus on sustainability and social connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates living walls integrated into the building's ventilation system.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Designed with a central courtyard to enhance community interaction.
04
Features a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and airflow.
05
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and sustainability.
The Krakow Oxygen Home is an architectural project that emphasizes sustainable urban living through its innovative design and integration with the natural environment. Located in Krakow, Poland, the project aims to enhance the quality of life for its users by creating a space that fosters community interaction while promoting ecological sustainability. This residential facility is designed with a focus on functionality, wellness, and resilience, which are vital in contemporary urban contexts.

The building features a series of interconnected spaces that encourage social interaction and collaboration among residents. Key elements include a library, a playroom, consulting rooms, and communal areas that serve various functions—ranging from recreational activities to professional gatherings. The project showcases a thoughtful spatial organization, with a central courtyard designed to facilitate movement and place social activities at the heart of the building.

The use of biophilic design strategies distinguishes the Krakow Oxygen Home from typical residential projects. The interior and exterior spaces are seamlessly connected through extensive use of living walls and rooftop gardens. These green features not only promote biodiversity but also serve as vital components in improving indoor air quality. Through these approaches, the project represents a cohesive vision that aligns urban living with environmental responsibility.

Material selection plays a crucial role in the design of the Krakow Oxygen Home. The predominant use of wood in the façade and interiors reflects a commitment to eco-friendly materials, enhancing the building’s thermal performance while providing an inviting atmosphere. Glass is utilized to maximize natural light and create a visual connection with the surrounding landscape, contributing to an overall sense of openness within the building. These materials are chosen intentionally to support the project’s sustainability goals while ensuring durability and maintenance efficiency.

A unique aspect of the Krakow Oxygen Home is its integrated air purification system that relies on natural processes. By utilizing strategically placed vegetation, the building harnesses the air-cleaning properties of plants, thereby improving the health of its occupants. This feature is part of a broader strategy aimed at creating a resilient structure that addresses both occupant comfort and environmental impact.

The architectural design incorporates various communal spaces to promote social connections. Meeting rooms, terraces, and flexible gathering areas serve as interfaces for residents to engage, collaborate, and share experiences. This focus on community-centric design fosters a sense of belonging and encourages active participation within the residential setting.

Through its attention to detail and commitment to sustainability, the Krakow Oxygen Home exemplifies contemporary architectural practices that seek to harmonize urban living with nature. The project serves as a model for future developments in urban architecture, showcasing the potential to create healthy, community-oriented spaces. To explore the intricate details of the design, including architectural plans and sections, interested individuals are encouraged to review the project presentation to gain deeper insights into its innovative ideas and functional spaces.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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