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Charred Metal Cladding and Plywood Interiors Create a Compact Home Merging with Nature

Authors:
Nina Novakovic, Tamara Milošević
Charred Metal Cladding and Plywood Interiors Create a Compact Home Merging with Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred metal cladding and warm plywood interiors, this compact residence embodies sustainable living by seamlessly integrating modern efficiency with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred metal cladding, enhancing durability and energy efficiency.
02
Uses plywood interiors to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
03
Features an elevated loft for the sleeping area, optimizing ground floor space.
04
Incorporates large glass windows for abundant natural light and views of the landscape.
05
Designed with multi-functional furniture to adapt to varying user needs.
The architectural design project "Compact Nature Living" represents a contemporary approach to residential living, focusing on sustainability, efficiency, and user adaptability. This project is positioned within a natural landscape and is designed to harmonize with its surroundings while delivering functional living spaces in a compact format.

The structure employs a minimalist aesthetic, utilizing durable materials like black metal for the exterior cladding. This choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes to the building’s longevity and energy efficiency. The integration of solar panels further underscores the commitment to renewable energy sources, allowing the project to minimize its environmental impact.

The floor plan emphasizes an open concept that merges kitchen, dining, and living areas into a single multifunctional space. This approach fosters community and interaction, vital for modern lifestyles. The design allows for flexible furniture arrangements, supporting varied use cases from family gatherings to remote work scenarios.

The elevation of the sleeping area into a loft maximizes floor space on the ground level and creates a sense of privacy. Large glass windows are strategically positioned to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection between indoors and outdoors.

Unique Attributes of Architectural Design

What sets "Compact Nature Living" apart from other residential projects is its emphasis on multifunctionality and a design that adapts to both user needs and environmental contexts. The architects prioritize sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems, making the home not only functional but also environmentally responsible.

The project champions flexibility with furniture solutions that can be reconfigured based on the user's immediate needs. This innovative approach allows the space to serve various functions, catering to different lifestyles within a compact footprint. Additionally, the structural design, featuring maximized volumes and minimized waste, aligns with principles of sustainable architecture, which is increasingly relevant today.

Environmentally Responsible Design Choices

The materials used in the construction of "Compact Nature Living" include black metal cladding, plywood finishes, glass for windows, and solar panels. These choices serve dual purposes: they promote sustainability and enhance the building's aesthetic cohesion. The black metal exterior allows for efficient temperature regulation while presenting a clean, modern look. Plywood interiors add warmth and texture, creating an inviting atmosphere.

This project showcases how architects can create spaces that are not only functional but also respect and blend with the natural environment. The focus on renewable energy use and sustainable material choices speaks to the growing trend in architecture that seeks to minimize the carbon footprint associated with residential living.

Readers interested in further exploring the architectural aspects of "Compact Nature Living" are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs that elucidate the various elements and innovative approaches that define this project. A deeper dive into its architectural ideas will highlight its contributions to the discourse on sustainable and efficient residential architecture.
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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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