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Charred Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber In A Communal Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Wai Sie Ng, Khang Siang Tey
Charred Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber In A Communal Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the retreat harmonizes with its mountainous landscape while providing a communal space for trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the design enhances fire resistance while providing unique texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural integrity and efficient insulation.
03
A bent A-frame design minimizes wind resistance and blends with the natural landscape.
04
Transitional spaces connect indoor and outdoor environments, offering seamless access to nature.
05
The communal layout fosters social interaction among trekkers, enhancing the overall experience.

### Project Overview

Located in a mountainous region, the House of Sun is designed to serve as a refuge for trekkers, accommodating approximately 20 guests. The single-structure facility addresses the challenges presented by high-altitude climatic conditions, providing functional space while enhancing the well-being of its occupants.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The design features a central communal area surrounded by essential functional spaces, promoting social interaction while maintaining individual privacy. Buffer zones are strategically incorporated to mitigate thermal extremes and enhance comfort for users. Key functional areas include a kitchen, dining room, lounge, and purposefully distributed sleeping quarters, all designed to facilitate usability and accessibility.

Interior spaces are adaptable, equipped with movable furniture that accommodates various group sizes and activities. High ceilings and large windows not only ensure ample natural light but also offer expansive views of the surrounding terrain. The choice of polished stone floors and wooden accents contributes to a welcoming atmosphere, fostering a sense of community while respecting personal space.

### Material Selection and Environmental Response

Local materials play a crucial role in the project’s design ethos. The predominant use of natural stone provides thermal mass, stabilizing indoor temperatures amid fluctuating outdoor conditions. Timber elements enhance the structural integrity and aesthetic quality, while extensive glass facades on the south-facing side capture natural light and solar energy, contributing to passive heating.

The building's orientation is intentionally designed to maximize sunlight exposure, while thermal mass strategies promote energy efficiency by allowing heat absorption during the day and gradual release at night. Additionally, solar panels and thermoelectric tiles are integrated into the energy systems, reinforcing the sustainability imperative embedded in the design. The project strives to harmonize with its natural environment while providing a functional and comfortable space for its users.

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

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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

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