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Translucent Facades and Wavy Roofs Enhance Communal Living Through Sustainable Timber Solutions

Authors:
ELIS VATHI, ANI CUEDARI, LORENXA CAKULI, FATJON MOLLA
Translucent Facades and Wavy Roofs Enhance Communal Living Through Sustainable Timber Solutions

Project in-detail

With a wavy roof design and translucent facades, the structure employs sustainable timber materials to create a communal living space focused on health and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes translucent facades to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Incorporates a wavy roof structure that promotes rainwater runoff and enhances aesthetic flow.
03
Features integrated living walls to improve air quality and connect residents with nature.
04
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to increase durability and reduce maintenance.
05
Designed with flexible communal spaces to adapt to various social functions and activities.
The architectural project "Breathe the House" represents a thoughtful response to urban living challenges in Krakow, Poland. The design focuses on creating a communal space that promotes health and interaction while addressing the pressing issue of air pollution in urban environments. The architecture responds dynamically to these concerns, utilizing organic forms and materials that foster connectivity between residents and their surroundings.

This project functions as a multifaceted living space, housing communal areas, therapeutic rooms, and private spaces that encourage social interaction and emotional well-being. The layout comprises essential zones, including kitchens, living rooms, and community spaces for group activities. Additionally, rooms designed for emotional and clinical engagements provide residents with necessary support mechanisms, ensuring a holistic experience within the architecture.

Unique Design Approaches and Materiality

"Breathe the House" distinguishes itself through the integration of translucent and reflective materials that create an interplay of light and shadow within the space. The use of such materials not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also symbolizes transparency and openness, key themes in promoting community engagement. The architectural form features a wavy roof structure, reminiscent of natural elements, facilitating a connection to the environment.

The architectural design prioritizes sustainability, incorporating green components like living walls and planters aimed at improving indoor air quality. Through these approaches, the project emphasizes its ecological impact, encouraging users to engage with nature while being part of an urban setting. The spatial organization allows for flow and exploration, encouraging residents to navigate their environment in a way that fosters social ties while maintaining personal comfort.

Functionality and Community Engagement

Critical to the project's purpose is its emphasis on community engagement. The design promotes interaction among residents, allowing spaces to serve more than their intended use. Features such as open courtyards and communal kitchens encourage gatherings and foster a sense of belonging. The architectural choices reflect a commitment to creating supportive environments that promote mental health and well-being.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design of "Breathe the House" reveals intricate details that enhance user experience and functionality. The project underscores the value of collective living while addressing individual needs, making it a relevant case study in contemporary architecture. For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and various design elements, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation to grasp the complexities and innovations embedded in this significant work of architecture.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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