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Charred Timber Facade and Internal Courtyard Enhance Natural Light in Urban Living

Authors:
Kwak Minseok, Lee Jiah
Charred Timber Facade and Internal Courtyard Enhance Natural Light in Urban Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred timber and a central courtyard, the design maximizes natural light and fosters emotional well-being, creating a serene urban residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features a central courtyard that integrates biophilic design principles for improved occupant wellness.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint while maintaining structural integrity.
04
Optimizes natural light through strategically placed skylights and large windows throughout.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to create unique spatial dynamics and visual interest.

### Project Overview

The Dissolve House is situated in an urban environment and addresses the contemporary challenges of modern living by prioritizing mental well-being and tranquility in its design. The project leverages the interplay between natural light, spatial arrangement, and emotional experience, adhering to the "Match Dissolve" framework. This design philosophy seeks to create a harmonious residential experience that bridges the gap between built environments and nature, fostering an atmosphere conducive to reflection and recovery.

### Spatial Configuration and Light Manipulation

The layout of the Dissolve House features an open and fluid design, with interconnected zones designated for various daily activities. Key spaces, such as the kitchen, living room, courtyard, corridor, and bedrooms, are organized to facilitate movement while maintaining a sense of connectivity. Strategic architectural elements, including large windows and skylights, optimize natural light throughout the day. Morning light casts a soft glow in the bedroom to promote tranquility, while the living room and bathroom are designed to enhance rejuvenation through dynamic light patterns as sunlight moves across the interior.

### Materiality and Integration of Nature

The choice of materials in the Dissolve House underscores its commitment to both durability and aesthetic minimalism. Concrete serves as the structural component, while glass elements ensure transparency and visual connection to the surrounding landscape. Wood introduces warmth, complemented by natural stone finishes that enhance tactile experiences. A central courtyard integrates greenery, providing a vital link to nature and fostering mindfulness within an urban context. Thoughtfully placed trees and plants allow light to filter through, creating a sense of serenity and enriching the overall emotional experience of the inhabitants.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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