Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Timber Cladding and Natural Spaces in a Community Guesthouse

Author:
Norbert Sipos
Charred Timber Cladding and Natural Spaces in a Community Guesthouse

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred timber cladding and integrating natural wooden terraces, the guesthouse merges modern comfort with sustainable design while revitalizing an existing stone barn to serve as a multifunctional community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guesthouse incorporates a high-efficiency air-to-water heat pump system for optimal energy management.
02
Charred timber cladding enhances durability while creating a distinct visual identity.
03
Natural wood terraces extend living spaces into the landscape, promoting outdoor interaction.
04
The design integrates an open-concept living area within a renovated stone barn.
05
Guestrooms feature expansive views, emphasizing connection to the surrounding environment.

The Teamakers Guest House project showcases a thoughtful approach to reusing existing structures while meeting modern needs. Located in a setting that encourages blending old and new, it features a renovated stone barn alongside a new building. The design focuses on functionality and sustainability, allowing the space to serve as a comfortable hospitality venue.

Architectural Concept

The design emphasizes clear distinctions between public and private areas. This separation helps create a natural flow and organization within the guest house. The entrance acts as a connecting point between the two wings, making it easy for guests to transition from communal spaces to private rooms. This thoughtful layout supports social interaction while maintaining the necessary privacy.



Renovated Stone Barn

The existing barn has been transformed from a neglected structure into a central gathering place. It now houses an open living area, a workshop, and spaces for packing and drying tea. Such renovations breathe new life into the barn while maintaining its historical character. The goal is to create a versatile space that serves various functions while enhancing the site's overall atmosphere.



New Building Wing

Next to the barn, the newly constructed wing provides essential amenities for guests. It includes rooms with terraces, a bathing area, and a kitchen that connects to outdoor spaces. This design creates a comfortable environment where guests can enjoy views and natural light. The layout encourages interaction with the surrounding landscape, making it a pleasant place to stay.



Sustainability and Performance

Sustainability is a key focus in the design. A high-efficiency air-to-water heat pump system helps manage energy use effectively. Passive solar design strategies also improve thermal performance. The orientation of the new wing and the placement of windows are optimized for natural light, reducing the need for artificial lighting. High levels of insulation ensure that both the barn and the new wing remain energy-efficient throughout the year.



The use of charred timber for cladding gives the buildings a cohesive appearance while connecting them to their environment. Natural wood terraces extend the living areas beyond the walls, inviting guests to engage with nature. This thoughtful use of materials and design choices contributes to a welcoming and functional atmosphere.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy