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Porches of Charred Wood and Brick Emphasizing Community Integration in Affordable Housing

Authors:
Vanessa Ma, Leroy Cheng
Porches of Charred Wood and Brick Emphasizing Community Integration in Affordable Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood façades and expansive porches, this architectural endeavor fosters communal living and adaptability in an urban environment designed for affordable housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a distinct aesthetic.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and reduce construction waste.
03
Features expansive porches that serve as informal community gathering spaces.
04
Designed with flexible layouts to adapt to varying family structures and living needs.
05
Integrates green roofs that contribute to urban biodiversity and stormwater management.
The project "The Hundred Porches" is an innovative architectural design initiative located in Melbourne, Australia, that addresses the growing need for affordable housing in urban environments. The design represents a thoughtful approach to modern living, merging functionality with community aesthetics. It aims to create a vibrant residential space that fosters interaction and connectivity among its inhabitants while reflecting the character of its urban setting.

This architecture project underscores the significance of modularity in contemporary design, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in home configurations. By employing a modular system, "The Hundred Porches" offers various housing options that can accommodate a diverse mix of family structures and lifestyle preferences. The buildings are designed to be easily expandable and customizable, ensuring that they meet the evolving needs of residents over time.

The function of the project extends beyond just providing shelter; it emphasizes the importance of community integration and interaction. Public spaces, such as shared gardens and communal gathering areas, play a crucial role in the overall design. These areas are strategically placed to encourage residents to engage with one another, fostering a sense of belonging and neighborly support. The design takes into account the 20-minute neighbourhood concept, which promotes accessibility to essential services within a short walking distance, thereby enhancing residents' daily living experiences.

Critical to the project are the architectural features that define its character. The use of materials like brick, concrete, steel, wood, and glass is both practical and symbolic. Brick is prominently featured in the façades, connecting the project with Melbourne's architectural heritage while providing structural integrity. Concrete serves as the primary material for the building’s framework, ensuring durability and the ability to create spacious interiors. Steel is utilized for structural elements, allowing for expansive open areas that facilitate a flexible living experience. Wood accents in the interiors add warmth and a tactile quality, enhancing the overall comfort of the spaces. Large glass windows are strategically incorporated to optimize natural light and create a connection between the indoor and outdoor environments, which further promotes a sense of openness.

Unique design approaches include the incorporation of porches that serve as transitional spaces between public and private realms. These porches not only provide private outdoor areas for residents but also act as informal gathering spots for the community. This thoughtful design feature encourages social interaction while maintaining privacy, showcasing the delicate balance between personal space and communal areas.

The project also addresses sustainability through green roofing and terraces, promoting biodiversity and reducing environmental impact. These elements perform critical functions, such as stormwater management and enhanced insulation, contributing to the overall sustainability goals of the architecture. The combination of eco-friendly design and social connectivity illustrates a comprehensive understanding of modern urban living needs.

In essence, "The Hundred Porches" embodies a new philosophy of housing that harmonizes architectural design with community-centric principles. By focusing on adaptability, materiality, and social integration, the project offers a model for future housing developments in metropolitan areas. Those interested in exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas related to this project are encouraged to delve into the full project presentation for further insights and details.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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