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Seamless Integration of Terrazzo and Timber in Community-Centric Recreation Facilities

Author:
Frank Boehm
Seamless Integration of Terrazzo and Timber in Community-Centric Recreation Facilities

Project in-detail

Utilizing a blend of timber and terrazzo, the design weaves through the existing landscape to create a functional community hub that prioritizes sustainability and user connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a flexible layout that adapts to diverse community activities and events.
04
Integrates extensive glazing to maximize natural light and connection to outdoor spaces.
05
Preserves existing trees within the site to maintain ecological integrity and natural beauty.

### Overview

Located in a landscape-rich environment, the Recreation Campus and Portugal Olive Guest House feature an integrated design that harmonizes built form with the surrounding natural setting. The project aims to facilitate a range of recreational activities while addressing environmental concerns and functional requirements.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout is structured around a central spine that connects various facilities and activity zones, promoting both guided movement and spontaneous interaction. This pedestrian corridor serves as the heart of the campus, ensuring accessibility while encouraging social engagement among users. Activity zones are thoughtfully designed to accommodate gatherings, meditation, and group dynamics, with strategically placed pavilions that open to garden spaces and foster interaction.

The design emphasizes a connection with nature by preserving existing trees and integrating local flora, such as lavender and other indigenous species, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The arrangement supports community interaction by creating spaces that are accessible yet offer opportunities for privacy.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a fundamental aspect of the project's design, contributing to both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. Timber serves as the primary structural element, valued for its low-carbon footprint and warm aesthetic. Terrazzo, used for the central spine, provides durability and a soft transition between the built environment and the landscape. Brick cladding enhances thermal regulation, significantly contributing to the passive design strategy. The extensive use of glass maximizes natural light, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, while steel elements provide structural integrity.

Sustainability is evident in the project’s approach, including natural ventilation strategies that reduce reliance on mechanical systems and landscaping that incorporates local flora to support biodiversity and minimize irrigation needs. The adaptability of spaces is a notable feature, allowing for rearrangement and reconfiguration to meet the evolving needs of the community over time. This flexibility ensures the design remains relevant and functional in a dynamic environment.

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

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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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