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Barrel-Vaulted Shelter with Cross-Laminated Timber Construction and Renewable Energy Integration

Barrel-Vaulted Shelter with Cross-Laminated Timber Construction and Renewable Energy Integration
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Constructed with cross-laminated timber and a barrel-vaulted design, the Microhome integrates renewable energy solutions to provide a compact living space that emphasizes sustainability and versatility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels for rapid assembly and reduced waste.
02
Features a barrel-vaulted roof design that enhances natural ventilation and rainwater drainage.
03
Integrates a compact kitchen with multifunctional storage solutions tailored for limited space.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for external cladding, providing durability and a unique aesthetic.
05
Equipped with solar panels to promote energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

### Overview

The Microhome is a contemporary residential structure designed to optimize compact living while addressing comfort and sustainability for a couple. Located in various geographical contexts, the design prioritizes adaptability to meet the changing needs of modern lifestyles, with a focus on reducing environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.

### Spatial Strategy and Interior Layout

The Microhome employs an efficient spatial strategy that incorporates multifunctional areas, maximizing usability without sacrificing comfort. The interior features a living and dining area that serves as a social focal point, seamlessly integrating with a compact kitchen for optimized functionality. High barrel-vaulted ceilings enhance the feeling of spaciousness, while strategically placed high-level windows provide passive ventilation. Key areas, including a private bathroom and a sleeping area that accommodates both a queen bed and flexible workspaces, ensure that personal needs are met without compromising the open nature of the living space.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovation. The exterior is clad in Kingspan's prefabricated corrugated metal panels, which offer durability and are designed for climate resilience, contributing to effective rainwater management. Structural elements utilize Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) beams, which not only provide strength but also serve to minimize the carbon footprint. Additional features include solar panels for energy generation and integrated wastewater treatment systems, promoting self-sufficiency in resource management. This combination of materials and technologies underscores a holistic approach to environmental adaptability and efficiency, allowing the Microhome to be suitable for diverse terrains and climates.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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