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Spiral Design Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Community Cohesion

Authors:
Debora Cheng, Jennifer Huang, Krish Girdhari
Spiral Design Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Community Cohesion

Project in-detail

Incorporating cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the design harmonizes with its surroundings to create a multifunctional community space that fosters interaction and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a unique Fibonacci spiral layout to enhance movement and flow.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a community kitchen designed to facilitate social gatherings and food sharing.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainable water management.
05
Includes a multi-use open-air theatre that connects with the surrounding landscape.
The Spirala Community Home is an architectural project situated in Proença-a-Velha, Portugal. This design emphasizes sustainable living and community interaction, with a layout that draws inspiration from natural forms, specifically the Fibonacci spiral. The building seeks to foster a deep connection between its residents and the environment, promoting collaborative activities while addressing the unique climatic conditions of the region.

The architectural concept revolves around a carefully structured community blueprint, integrating essential elements like workshops, gathering areas, and residential spaces. The design strategically combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, ensuring that each space serves a distinct purpose while contributing to the overall experience of the site. The project utilizes local materials, including concrete, timber, and glass, achieving a balance between durability and natural warmth.

Innovative Design Approaches
A unique aspect of the Spirala Community Home is its approach to sustainable architecture. The design incorporates passive solar strategies, maximizing natural light and reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The orientation of the building allows for optimal ventilation, accommodating the regional climate while providing comfort for its inhabitants. Rainwater harvesting and efficient waste management systems further highlight the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

The layout encourages social interaction through open spaces and flexible areas designated for community events. The Open Air Theatre and Community Kitchen serve as focal points for engagement, allowing residents to come together for shared experiences. By incorporating spaces for both individual contemplation and communal gatherings, the design effectively addresses the need for social cohesion within the community.

Environmental Integration
The project reflects an integration of architecture with its surrounding ecosystem. The food forest and vineyard zones not only serve agricultural purposes but also enhance the ecological dynamics of the site. The building's footprint is deliberately designed to minimize disruption, preserving the natural landscape while promoting biodiversity. Each design decision is anchored in the intention to create a harmonious relationship between the residents and their environment.

The Spirala Community Home stands out due to its emphasis on connection—both within the building and with the broader ecological context. This project embodies a shift towards a more responsible form of architecture that considers social, environmental, and aesthetic factors collectively.

For a more comprehensive understanding of how these architectural concepts manifest within the project, explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Spirala Community Home. Delve into the architectural ideas that underscore this community-focused initiative for further insights into its innovative approach.
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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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