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Charred Shingles and Reclaimed Wood Enhance Eco-Friendly Lodge Amidst Kerala's Backwaters

Authors:
Yam Chang Shing , Yi Heng Kuan
Charred Shingles and Reclaimed Wood Enhance Eco-Friendly Lodge Amidst Kerala's Backwaters

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and reclaimed materials, the design creates a sustainable retreat that seamlessly integrates with Kerala's vibrant backwaters.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates a system of water channels for enhanced recreational opportunities.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that accommodates the landscape.
04
Employs passive cooling techniques to optimize energy efficiency.
05
Integrates native planting to support local biodiversity and ecology.

### Overview

Located on an island in Lake Vembanad, Kerala, the Adira Resort is designed to harmonize with the region's natural landscape and cultural heritage. The project showcases the distinctive features of Kerala’s serene backwaters and vibrant ecosystem, aiming to create a unique hospitality experience that respects local traditions and ecological conditions. The architectural approach emphasizes the integration of built form with the surrounding environment, providing a setting that enhances both visual and experiential connections.

### Waterway Design

The Adira Resort incorporates an intricate network of water bodies designed to enhance the guest experience while promoting interaction with the local landscape. These water channels serve both aesthetic and recreational purposes, providing opportunities for activities such as boating and fishing. The strategic placement of diverse water features throughout the property improves connectivity between spaces, allowing guests to engage with the rich aquatic environment of the region.

### Landscape and Materiality

The landscape strategy prioritizes ecological balance by utilizing native flora to preserve the natural character of the site. Local plant species, including native grasses and palm trees, are integrated to create a lush environment that reflects Kerala's biodiversity. The architectural language is defined by low-impact, eco-friendly materials, such as bamboo and reclaimed wood, which resonate with both contemporary design and traditional forms. Large glass facades are employed to maximize views of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing the connection between the built environment and its natural context.

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

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Competition organisers

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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