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Charred Timber Facade With Modular Spaces for Flexible Living

Author:
Thanh TrÀ NguyỄn
Charred Timber Facade With Modular Spaces for Flexible Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing a charred timber facade for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal, the design incorporates modular living spaces that adapt to diverse user needs while emphasizing sustainability and environmental integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved fire resistance and aesthetic value.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainable sourcing.
03
Features a modular design that allows for easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
04
The bent A-frame structure enhances natural light penetration and ventilation.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting and wastewater recycling systems for sustainable water management.

### Overview

The Pinwheel House is a distinctive architectural design located in a serene woodland setting, focusing on sustainable living and innovative space utilization. The project seeks to address contemporary housing challenges while fostering a connection with the natural environment. Its design concept draws inspiration from the dynamic structure of a pinwheel, symbolizing flexibility and adaptability in both form and function.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout of the Pinwheel House comprises two main components: a compact core and an expansive extension. The core, a cube approximately three meters per side, houses essential living facilities, including the kitchen, bathroom, and primary living spaces. The extension features modular components that allow for configurable living, dining, and workspace areas, adapting to the varying needs of its users. A rotating wheel container serves as a central hub for utilities, further enhancing the functional versatility of the structure.

### Environmental Performance

Material selection and sustainable practices are critical aspects of the design. The exterior employs Kingspan Design Wall 2000 panels, characterized by colored metal and glass to optimize light intake and thermal performance. Roof-mounted solar panels and a rainwater collection system contribute to the building's reduced environmental impact. The interior design prioritizes flexibility with adjustable furniture and clearly defined zones that encourage both privacy and social interaction. These features, combined with eco-friendly materials such as plywood flooring and a steel stud frame, exemplify the project’s commitment to sustainability and modern living.

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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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