Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Haven

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Sustainable Community Haven

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this design harmonizes with its natural surroundings to create a flexible communal space that nurtures connection and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability and fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction time and minimize waste through prefabrication.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior height and structural stability while allowing natural light penetration.
04
The project incorporates native vegetation in its landscaping, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance.
05
Flexible interior spaces can easily adapt for various community activities, fostering social interaction and engagement.
This architectural design project represents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary living within the context of its natural surroundings. Located in a site that harmoniously blends with the landscape, the project functions as both a residence and a gathering space, fostering a sense of community through its design. It embodies principles of sustainability, connectivity, and flexibility, making it a relevant contribution to modern architecture.

At its core, the project prioritizes functionality while emphasizing the importance of the user experience. The design efficiently divides the space into various zones that cater to different activities, allowing for a seamless flow between private and communal areas. This layout encourages interaction among occupants, promoting a lifestyle rooted in shared experiences. The integration of open-plan living areas fosters a connection to the outdoors, with large windows and sliding doors that frame views of the surrounding environment.

The architectural design is characterized by a balanced interplay of materials. Concrete is employed for its strength and durability, offering structural integrity while creating a minimalist elegance. Complementing the concrete's solidity, sustainable wood is used for cladding, adding warmth and a tactile quality to the structure. The careful selection of low-emissivity glass enhances natural lighting while optimizing energy efficiency, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. These design elements work together to promote environmental responsibility while creating a comfortable living environment.

Key features of the building include expansive communal areas that are designed to support a variety of activities. The integration of flexible spaces allows rooms to adapt to changing needs, accommodating everything from family gatherings to quiet retreats. The strategic placement of skylights ensures that daylight permeates deep into the interior, reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This thoughtful approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the spaces but also contributes to the overall well-being of the residents.

Landscaping plays a vital role in reinforcing the architectural design. The gardens incorporate native vegetation that requires minimal maintenance and irrigation, creating a sustainable ecosystem that thrives in harmony with the local climate. Pathways naturally guide residents through the outdoor spaces, creating an inviting environment that encourages exploration and interaction with nature.

One unique design approach evident in this project is the use of cantilevered elements, which create dynamic shadow patterns throughout the day. These architectural features not only add visual interest but also provide essential shading, enhancing the comfort of outdoor areas during warmer months. Additionally, the project incorporates passive solar design principles, positioning the building to maximize natural heat gain during colder months while minimizing overheating in summer.

Architectural sections and plans have been crafted to illustrate the careful consideration given to each aspect of the design. These technical drawings showcase the relationship between the building and the site, highlighting the strategic orientation and the way natural elements have been integrated into the overall concept. This attention to detail in the architectural designs reflects a commitment to creating spaces that support sustainable living and enhance the quality of life for residents.

This project stands as a testament to the potential of architecture to respond to human needs while respecting the environment. It encourages us to rethink how we interact with our surroundings and underscores the importance of designing spaces that are not only functional but also foster a genuine sense of community. For those interested in deepening their understanding of this architectural endeavor, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design will provide further insights into the careful thought process and innovative approaches that define this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy