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Cantilevered Decks Featuring Natural Wood Cladding and Sustainable Landscaping for Private Coastal Living

Authors:
Jacob Ptolemy, Taylor Gamble
Cantilevered Decks Featuring Natural Wood Cladding and Sustainable Landscaping for Private Coastal Living
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Cantilevered sections and expansive glass railings enhance the connection to nature in a coastal residence designed to foster indoor-outdoor living and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered upper level creates shaded outdoor spaces below.
02
Extensive use of glass railings enhances views while ensuring safety.
03
Natural wood cladding integrates seamlessly with the landscaped environment.
04
Design prioritizes passive solar heating through strategically placed windows.
05
Native plant landscaping supports local biodiversity and reduces maintenance.

### Overview
Located in Laguna Beach, California, Lagunita is a contemporary residential structure designed to accommodate a young couple with a penchant for an active and social lifestyle. The project focuses on optimizing the use of space while fostering a connection with the surrounding natural environment. The design facilitates the interplay between indoor and outdoor areas, prioritizing functionality and enhancing the overall living experience.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality
The layout of Lagunita comprises two levels, strategically divided to provide both communal and private spaces. The first level features a spacious living area that seamlessly connects to an outdoor deck, promoting social interaction and outdoor engagement. Common areas are situated to encourage gatherings, while the upper level houses private spaces, including bedrooms and a home office. Large windows throughout the home allow for ample natural light, enhancing the sense of openness and reinforcing the connection to the exterior landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainable Practices
The building's material choices reflect a commitment to both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The exterior is finished with smooth white stucco, providing a modern contrast to the lush greenery surrounding the site. Natural wood, possibly cedar, is employed in the cantilevered ceilings, adding warmth and texture. Glass railings are utilized to preserve unobstructed views of the landscape, while durable decking materials extend the living space outdoors. The landscaping features native flora, which not only frames the structure but also promotes environmental harmony and minimizes ecological disruption. This approach indicates a focus on sustainable design principles, including energy efficiency through thoughtful window placement and material selection.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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