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Charred Wood Cladding and Solar Efficiency in a Compact Coastal Home

Author:
Lorenzo Bavelloni
Charred Wood Cladding and Solar Efficiency in a Compact Coastal Home

Project in-detail

Integrating charred wood cladding and extensive solar panels, this compact Northumberland home exemplifies sustainable living while maintaining a strong connection to its coastal environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wood cladding for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural strength and insulation.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
04
Features an off-grid solar power system for complete energy independence.
05
Incorporates rainwater and greywater systems for sustainable resource management.

### Architectural Design Report: XS Microhome 2024

#### Overview

The XS Microhome 2024 is situated within the rugged coastal landscape of Northumberland, encompassing a compact footprint of 25 m². This modular unit addresses contemporary housing challenges through a design that emphasizes spatial efficiency and adaptability. The architecture prioritizes sustainable living while fostering a sense of community, providing a suitable model for individuals and families aspiring to embrace minimalism without compromising functional modernity.

#### Exterior and Interior Composition

The exterior features a contemporary facade characterized by clean lines and a minimalist palette, highlighted by floor-to-ceiling glass panels that facilitate interaction with the surrounding landscape. Circular windows not only serve as visual focal points, but they also enhance the interior with ample natural light. The contrast between the sleek black cladding and the natural terrain underscores the design’s intent to harmonize with its environment.

Internally, the XS Microhome optimizes space with an open-plan layout that promotes fluid movement among living, dining, and kitchen areas. Wood finishes throughout create a warm atmosphere, while flexible spatial arrangements cater to the diverse needs of residents, whether for work or social gatherings. The design balances functionality with comfort, ensuring relevance in evolving lifestyles.

#### Sustainable and Technological Elements

Sustainable materials play a pivotal role in the XS Microhome's construction. The primary exterior cladding utilizes corrosion-resistant zinc-coated metal sheeting, complemented by lightweight aluminum framing for windows and structural elements. Interior wood finishes enhance aesthetic appeal and thermal comfort, while innovative insulation technologies improve energy efficiency and meet contemporary standards. High-performance glazing maximizes natural light while enhancing thermal performance.

Equipped with advanced technologies, the microhome supports a self-sufficient lifestyle. Key features include five solar panels generating renewable energy, a lithium battery storage system for independent energy use, and a rainwater harvesting system that promotes sustainable water management. Additionally, a greywater recycling system contributes to efficient resource conservation, underscoring the commitment to sustainability central to the design.

The flexibility of the design allows for modular configurations, enabling multiple units to be combined in communal settings. This adaptability addresses various living arrangements, making the XS Microhome a viable solution for modern housing needs in diverse contexts.

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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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