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Biomimetic Structure Supported By Stilt Construction Using Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Elements

Authors:
Jacinto jesús Moros montañés, Julia Otaño gonzalez, Carmen Garrido herranz, Nuria Martinez morales
Biomimetic Structure Supported By Stilt Construction Using Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Elements

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts and enveloped by nature, the biomimetic structure utilizes charred wood shingles and expansive glass to create a sustainable living space that seamlessly connects inhabitants with their forest surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a bent A-frame structure that enhances spatial dynamics while blending with its forest environment.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide an innovative aesthetic and natural resistance to weathering, ensuring durability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized in construction to reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainable building practices.
04
A stilt elevation minimizes site disturbance, preserving the natural topography and supporting local wildlife habitats.
05
The integration of a bioreactor water purification system exemplifies an advanced approach to resource management and sustainability.
The Krysálida architectural project showcases a thoughtful integration of modern design with ecological considerations, set against the backdrop of a forest environment. This project represents a significant step in architectural innovation, seeking to create a harmonious relationship between constructed spaces and the natural world. The design is structured to meet the needs of contemporary living while promoting sustainability and environmental awareness.

At its core, the Krysálida project functions as a versatile living space. It is designed to accommodate various activities, including storage, hygiene, and leisure. The layout emphasizes an organic flow that encourages occupants to engage with their surroundings. The structure comprises multiple levels that ascend, effectively utilizing vertical space and offering panoramic views of the forested landscape. This vertical organization facilitates a unique interaction with nature, making every moment spent within the structure an experience in itself.

One of the most notable aspects of the Krysálida design is its approach to materiality. The use of wood serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, providing structural integrity while also establishing a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The careful selection of waterproof fabric for the exterior reflects an understanding of the need for durability in a forest environment, ensuring that the structure can withstand the elements without compromising its visual appeal. Expanses of glass are incorporated to allow natural light to penetrate deep into the living spaces, reinforcing the connection to the outdoors. This transparency enhances the occupants' experience of their environment, creating an immersive and peaceful setting.

The design incorporates an innovative water purification system, which stands out as a key element of its sustainability strategy. By harvesting rainwater and using a bioreactor system that involves specific plants for filtration, Krysálida exemplifies a closed-loop approach to water use. This method not only conserves resources but also reflects a commitment to minimizing the ecological footprint, making the project a model for future developments.

Krysálida’s unique design approaches can be seen in its structural expression and concept of adaptive architecture. The web-like framework of the building echoes the branching patterns of trees, merging the familiar forms of nature with contemporary architectural practice. Moreover, the elevated construction on stilts preserves the natural ground conditions, ensuring that the ecosystem remains undisturbed. This thoughtful elevation allows for the retention of plant life and helps maintain local wildlife habitats.

The interior spaces are thoughtfully arranged to maximize comfort and functionality. A designated storage room provides practical utility while a modern bathroom area ensures residents have essential amenities. Leisure spaces are intentionally located to capture views of the surrounding landscape, emphasizing the importance of connection to nature in the living experience. During nighttime, the structure is illuminated internally, creating a gentle ambiance that enhances the nocturnal landscape while making the building visually appealing from a distance.

In sum, the Krysálida architectural project represents a forward-thinking vision in the realm of sustainable architecture. It illustrates the potential for buildings to harmonize with their environments while addressing contemporary living needs. The attention to materiality, functionality, and sustainability reflect a comprehensive understanding of how architecture can serve both its inhabitants and the broader ecological context. For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs presented in its detailed documentation can provide additional insights into the creative processes and innovative ideas that shape Krysálida. This project stands as an invitation to rethink how we can build spaces that respect and celebrate their natural surroundings.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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