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Spiral Community Spaces Featuring Natural Stone and Charred Timber Shingles

Authors:
Yago Simal barreiro, Giulia De pasquale, Jose luis Herrero, Victor Criado
Spiral Community Spaces Featuring Natural Stone and Charred Timber Shingles

Project in-detail

Embracing an ecological approach with its spiraling design and the use of local stone and charred timber shingles, the village creates a harmonious space for community living while promoting sustainable practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates a unique spiral layout that encourages community interaction while maintaining personal privacy.
02
Local stone is utilized not only for durability but also to create a contextual connection with the surrounding landscape.
03
Charred wooden shingles are employed for their aesthetic appeal and enhanced weather resistance, reflecting traditional materials in a modern context.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are strategically used to enhance structural strength while reducing carbon footprint.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation, fostering a sense of openness within the living spaces.
The project under analysis is an innovative architectural design that proposes an ecological village situated in Castro Marim, eastern Portugal. This project emphasizes the need for sustainable living and community connectivity, reflecting a thoughtful approach to modern architecture that prioritizes both individual and collective experiences. The design embodies a commitment to environmental stewardship while providing functional spaces that encourage social interaction among residents.

At its core, the project represents a harmonious balance between the built environment and natural surroundings. By integrating advanced ecological principles with a community-centric philosophy, the design seeks to redefine how people interact with their living spaces. The layout comprises two primary volumes arranged in a spiral formation, connected by a central "diffusion space." This design choice highlights the importance of communal engagement while maintaining private areas for residents.

The primary function of this architectural design is to create a sustainable community that fosters social ties and environmental awareness. The private living areas are arranged to provide comfort and seclusion while being close enough to communal spaces to encourage interaction. Common facilities such as dining and living rooms are strategically placed to serve as hubs of activity, enabling a variety of communal gatherings and events. This approach effectively dissolves the boundaries traditionally set between public and private spaces, supporting a lifestyle that values connection and inclusivity.

Several important aspects of the project are worth noting. The choice of materials is a crucial element that underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability. While specific materials are not detailed, typical selections for such ecological designs may include natural stone for structural integrity, responsibly sourced wood for warmth and aesthetic appeal, and locally derived thatch for roofing, aligning with traditional architectural practices. The facade likely incorporates glass and metal, allowing for ample natural light while maintaining an uninterrupted view of the picturesque landscape.

The design also utilizes geometric forms that convey fluidity and continuity. The spiraling layout not only serves aesthetic purposes but also represents a broader philosophical statement about the interconnectedness of life. Circular patterns inspire organic movement and reflect the essence of community by promoting accessible and interactive spaces throughout the village. This unique approach to spatial organization cultivates an environment where residents can engage with one another and their surroundings actively.

Beyond the physical structure, this architectural design embodies a broader vision for future living environments. It serves as a model for how communities can be constructed with a strong emphasis on ecological integrity and social connectivity. By prioritizing these elements, the project aligns with the contemporary architectural thought aimed at developing communities that are not only livable but also promote a sustainable way of life.

The exploration of this project can reveal many insights into architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shape modern ecological developments. For a more in-depth understanding and to fully appreciate the thought processes behind the design, readers are encouraged to dig deeper into the project presentation, where they can discover the intricate details that define this forward-thinking architectural endeavor.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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