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Balancing Natural Light with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in a Modern Residential Space

Author:
Nataliya Ucherdzhieva
Balancing Natural Light with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in a Modern Residential Space

Project in-detail

Integrating cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, this residence emphasizes natural light and spatial flow, designed to enhance the comfort of modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles, providing a distinct aesthetic and improved weather resistance.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design to maximize natural light and create open spaces.
04
Utilizes a small courtyard to seamlessly connect indoor and outdoor living areas.
05
Strategically oriented to optimize sun exposure throughout the day.

### Overview

Located in an urban context, the project "1.618" explores a design philosophy inspired by the Fibonacci Golden Ratio, aiming to create a harmonious balance between functionality, aesthetics, and sustainable living. The architectural intent focuses on crafting residential spaces that enhance user experience through optimized natural light and thoughtful spatial organization. The alignment of the building with geographical factors further supports contemporary environmental practices, fostering an integration with its surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration

The spatial layout of "1.618" is defined by a rational arrangement that delineates distinct functional zones within the residence. The central living room serves as a communal area, promoting interaction among occupants, while a small courtyard provides a connection to nature, inviting natural light into adjacent spaces. Utility rooms are strategically designed to maintain organization, supporting the primary living functions without detracting from the overall flow. The bedrooms are situated to ensure privacy and tranquility, contributing to a restful environment.

### Material Selection

Material choices for the project contribute significantly to its aesthetic and functional integrity. Predominantly featuring glass, the design emphasizes transparency and openness, allowing ample natural light while framing views of the outdoor landscape. Timber elements may be utilized for flooring and structural features, offering a warm tactile quality that connects with nature. Steel is likely incorporated for structural durability, and concrete may serve as a contemporary element in communal areas. This combination of materials promotes a cohesive environment that integrates the home within its ecological context. The orientation of the building enhances sunlight exposure, maximizing energy efficiency and contributing to indoor comfort.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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