Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Biomimetic Design with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in an Alpine Refugium

Authors:
Hyeon-bhin Jang, Gahyeon Kim, Zhipeng Shang
Biomimetic Design with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in an Alpine Refugium

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a symbiotic relationship with the alpine landscape, offering a reflective space for personal introspection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes sustainably sourced charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that blends seamlessly with the surrounding alpine landscape.
04
Divided into modular units, allowing for flexible use and community interaction.
05
Integrates regenerative waste systems to reduce environmental impact.

The architectural design project "Reincarnation" is conceived as a reflective space set within an alpine landscape. It serves as a multifunctional facility that emphasizes the themes of ecological sensitivity and personal introspection. Designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of human interactions with nature, "Reincarnation" embodies a commitment to sustainable practices while integrating seamlessly into its environment.

The project comprises a series of interconnected, modular structures that represent different phases of the reincarnation process. Each module is designed to foster user engagement, providing spaces that encourage reflection and connection with nature. The architecture melds organic forms with functional spaces, utilizing materials that minimize ecological impact.

Architectural Features and Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining aspects of "Reincarnation" is its modular design approach. The facility is composed of individual units that can adapt to various needs, promoting flexibility in usage. This design not only accommodates personal introspection but also supports communal interaction, inviting users to explore their connections to both themselves and their surroundings.

The integration of organic forms within the architecture is another distinguishing characteristic. The design mimics natural shapes, such as eggs and nests, embodying themes of safety and new beginnings. This aesthetic choice aligns with the project's focus on renewal and transformation, enabling a profound interaction between users and the landscape.

Material choice is critical in reinforcing the project’s ecological principles. "Reincarnation" utilizes sustainably sourced wood from recently fallen trees and eco-friendly panels designed to reduce the overall environmental footprint of construction and operation. These materials not only enhance the aesthetic qualities of the design but also contribute to a higher level of sustainability.

Functional Spaces within the Project

The project is organized into five distinct phases that guide users through their transformative experience. Each space is tailored to engage the user in a different aspect of reflection:

1. The initial phase, "Ready to Rebirth," provides a preparatory space for users to mentally transition into their introspective journey.
2. The "Incubation" area allows for personal contemplation, creating a quiet environment conducive to introspection.
3. The "Break an Egg" phase symbolizes the transition to new awareness, featuring light and warmth that stimulate renewal.
4. The "Rest in the Nest" space serves as a calming retreat, fostering a direct relationship with the surrounding environment.
5. Finally, "Challenge Again" is designed to encourage users to act upon their insights, aiming to integrate newfound understanding into daily life.

The architectural layout promotes movement and flow between spaces, enhancing user experience through deliberate connections to nature and self-reflection.

The "Reincarnation" project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architectural design that prioritizes ecological responsibility and personal growth. Its unique modularity, organic form, and sustainable material selection distinguish it from typical projects within this domain. For those interested in exploring the project further, details on the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas can provide deeper insights into its thoughtful design process.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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