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Translucent Facades and Communal Spaces Enhanced by Durable Concrete and Timber in an Urban Residential Development

Authors:
Miruna-stefana Agachi, Iulia Cazacu
Translucent Facades and Communal Spaces Enhanced by Durable Concrete and Timber in an Urban Residential Development

Project in-detail

Showcasing translucent facades crafted from extensive glazing and warm timber accents, this urban residential development prioritizes communal interaction and adaptability within its diverse living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent facades enhance natural light and create a visual connection to the outdoors.
02
The use of charred wooden shingles contributes to building durability and a distinct aesthetic.
03
Adaptable floor plans allow for varying family sizes, catering to diverse residents.
04
Extensive communal spaces promote social interaction within the residential setting.
05
Sustainable materials focus on environmental sensitivity while reflecting local craftsmanship.
The "Collective Living in Rahova" project is centered in the Rahova district of Bucharest, Romania. This initiative seeks to address the infrastructural and social challenges faced by residents in a locale characterized by a mix of individual and multi-unit housing. Through strategic design interventions, this project promotes communal living while responding to the requirements of diverse residential units.

The architectural design emphasizes clarity and functional relationships. Key components include a mix of studio apartments and larger family units, offering flexibility for various household sizes. The project incorporates communal spaces strategically positioned on the ground floor to facilitate interactions among residents. These areas are designed to act as vibrant hubs for social engagement and community activities, essential for nurturing a cohesive neighborhood identity.

Unique Design Approaches
The project integrates several distinctive design approaches that differentiate it from conventional collective housing developments. One notable aspect is the emphasis on transparency and connectivity. By utilizing extensive glazing in the facades, the design invites natural light into living spaces while creating a visual continuum between indoors and outdoors. This not only enhances the living experience but also fosters a sense of kinship among residents.

The design also pays homage to local architectural vernaculars through material selection. Concrete serves as the foundational structural element, ensuring durability and resilience. Complementing this, wood accents are utilized in communal areas to introduce warmth and comfort, while masonry details echo the craftsmanship inherent to the region. This blend of materials enriches the architectural narrative and reinforces a connection to the local context.

Architectural Functionality
The project's layout exemplifies thoughtful planning geared towards maximizing space and functionality. The circulation patterns within the building are designed to facilitate ease of movement and access, ensuring that communal areas are easily reachable. The careful arrangement of private and semi-public spaces underscores the intent to promote interaction while respecting individual privacy.

The integration of adaptable floor plans reflects the architects' recognition of the dynamic nature of modern families. By providing options that cater to varying needs and lifestyles, the design positions itself to respond to the evolving demands of its residents.

Explore the project presentation for more detailed insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs that make "Collective Living in Rahova" a compelling study in contemporary architecture. Engage with the architectural ideas presented to appreciate how they contribute to the overall vision of revitalizing community engagement in urban environments.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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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