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Cedar Shell with Zellige Hearth in Compact Living Solution

Authors:
Gerald Schnell, Clea Jentsch
Cedar Shell with Zellige Hearth in Compact Living Solution
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Built around a central fireplace, this compact dwelling utilizes cedar wood and Moroccan Zellige tiles to create an efficient living space that promotes sustainable living in just 25 m².
5 key facts about this project
01
Central fireplace serves as the focal point for all living areas.
02
Cedar wood construction enhances insulation and durability.
03
Moroccan Zellige tiles provide a unique design element in the kitchen.
04
Niches with square windows maximize natural light throughout.
05
Water management utilizes a combination of biological treatment and microfiltration.

Alcove House is a compact residential design that prioritizes efficiency and sustainability. Located in an area that promotes small living spaces, the house covers only 25 m² and organizes its essential functions around a central fireplace. Drawing inspiration from a snail shell, the layout optimizes every corner, ensuring that comfort and usability co-exist within a limited footprint.

Design Concept

Inside Alcove House, four distinct areas are set around the central hearth: the kitchen, dining room, bedroom, and bathroom. This arrangement encourages a sense of togetherness while still allowing for privacy in each space. Each area is flooded with natural light through square windows placed within thoughtfully designed niches, creating a warm and welcoming environment.

Material Selection

Cedar wood has been chosen for the walls, ceiling, and floor. This choice adds warmth and helps with insulation. The fireplace features Moroccan Zellige tiles, which add visual interest and connect the design to local craftsmanship. Together, these materials support the overall aim of sustainability while enhancing the living experience.

Construction Methodology

The structure uses a wooden framework, making it lightweight and sturdy. The roof is designed in two layers, covered with shingles and solar cells, promoting energy efficiency. The design incorporates biological sewage treatment along with physical microfiltration to manage water responsibly. These features reflect a strong commitment to environmental considerations.

Technical Features

Solar energy is harnessed through solar cells placed on the southwest and southeast sides of the roof and walls, allowing for an independent power supply. Heating comes from the fireplace as well as an underfloor heating system that optimizes heat usage. The walls are thick enough to accommodate both water heaters and batteries, providing practical energy solutions. Additionally, discreet sun blinds within the windows help prevent overheating, ensuring comfort for the occupants.

Alcove House exemplifies modern living by successfully combining practical design and environmental awareness within a compact space, offering a balanced approach to everyday life.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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