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Wavy Canopy Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Community Gathering Space

Authors:
Hugo Rebelo, Francisca Penteado
Wavy Canopy Crafted from Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Community Gathering Space

Project in-detail

Featuring a wavy canopy crafted from cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, this community hub harmonizes with its natural surroundings while offering versatile spaces for training and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure's wavy roof design is inspired by natural forms, enhancing the building's visual connection to its landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both structural stability and aesthetic warmth, creating a welcoming atmosphere.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer a unique finish that enhances fire resistance while blending seamlessly with the natural environment.
04
The integration of interlaced straw insulation maximizes energy efficiency and promotes sustainable building practices.
05
Flexible outdoor terraces are designed for various community activities, fostering social interaction and engagement among users.
The architectural project known as WoodWave is an exploration of form, function, and sustainability, situated in a landscape that invites interaction with the natural environment. The design embodies a thoughtful approach, resembling the organic qualities of a bird's nest, which symbolizes comfort and harmony within nature. This unique representation reflects a broader intention to harmonize the built environment with its surroundings, emphasizing ecological awareness and community-oriented spaces.

WoodWave serves multiple functions, acting as an information center and community hub. Its design incorporates training rooms and a café, offering both educational and social gathering spaces. This versatility is a core aspect of the project, encouraging engagement among visitors and fostering a sense of community. The flow between indoor and outdoor spaces is carefully curated, enhancing the user experience and allowing people to connect with nature while utilizing the building’s facilities.

The architectural details in WoodWave are deliberately chosen to enhance functionality and aesthetic sense. The project's wave-like roof, mimicking natural forms, delivers both visual appeal and practical benefits, such as shading and passive cooling. Large windows and open interiors promote the influx of natural light, reducing the need for artificial illumination and improving the overall atmosphere. Spaces below the roof are designed to be airy and inviting, encouraging movement and interaction among occupants, which demonstrates the project’s commitment to usability.

Material selection is another notable aspect of the WoodWave project. The use of wood lath, interlaced straw, rammed earth, and concrete reflects a commitment to sustainability while ensuring the structural integrity of the design. These materials not only serve functional purposes but also resonate with local traditions and techniques, bridging contemporary architectural ideas with historical practices. The combination of these materials effectively addresses environmental challenges, promoting energy efficiency and reducing the building’s ecological footprint.

What truly makes WoodWave unique is its innovative approach to blending contemporary architectural design with sustainable practices. The undulating form of the building offers a striking visual narrative while enhancing its relationship with the surrounding landscape. This interaction encourages users to appreciate the natural world while experiencing the architectural qualities of the space. The project's design is functional yet embraces a philosophy of growth and connection, establishing an inviting environment for the community.

In examining WoodWave, it becomes evident that this architectural project is more than just a structure; it is a representation of thoughtful design that focuses on the needs of users and environmental considerations. Its successful integration of natural forms, sustainable materials, and community-centric spaces provides valuable insights into modern architectural design. For those interested in delving deeper into the project's nuances, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans and sections, as well as the overall architectural designs, to appreciate the thoroughness of the ideas that guided its evolution.
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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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