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Charred Wood Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Community Integration in Natural Setting

Authors:
Ares Viscardi, Debora Zaghini
Charred Wood Cladding and Cross-Laminated Timber Enhance Community Integration in Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding and cross-laminated timber, the design fosters a seamless connection to nature while serving as a versatile community gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an innovative bent A-frame structure to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for lightweight construction and rapid assembly.
04
Designed with a central atrium to maximize natural light and promote community interaction.
05
Integrates native landscaping to support biodiversity and reduce maintenance requirements.

The architectural design project presents a contemporary structure that embodies a seamless connection between the built environment and its natural context. This project is characterized by its organic form, which reflects the contours of its surroundings, thus creating a harmonious relationship with the landscape. The building functions as a versatile space suitable for community gatherings, recreational activities, and quiet reflection.

The exterior design utilizes a wrapping droplet shape, which aids in water management and enhances airflow. Materials such as natural stone, wood, glass, and concrete have been selected for their durability and aesthetic qualities. This choice promotes sustainability and ensures the structure’s longevity while maintaining a cohesive dialogue with its environment.

Unique Design Approaches

The project stands out due to its central atrium, which serves as a multifunctional space. This area allows for natural light penetration, creating an inviting atmosphere that encourages social interaction. The use of wooden slats for shading and aesthetic appeal is a notable design decision. Additionally, the incorporation of green roofs and living walls contributes to biodiversity, further anchoring the building within its ecological context.

Moreover, the project's innovative roof design aids in natural ventilation, allowing for passive cooling that reduces the need for mechanical systems. This approach exemplifies a commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Architectural Details and Functionality

The architectural plans feature well-defined spaces, ensuring that each area serves a specific purpose while promoting fluidity throughout the structure. Key elements include the strategic placement of transparent glass walls that enhance visual connectivity with the outdoors. The water feature within the atrium acts as both a focal point and a sensory element, enriching the user experience.

The landscaping around the building is carefully curated to complement the architecture, utilizing native plant species to promote sustainability and minimize maintenance. Overall, the design emphasizes functionality, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering community engagement while respecting environmental integrity.

For further exploration of this project, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation for comprehensive insights into its architectural execution.

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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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