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Charred Wood Cladding Enhances Compact Living Solutions in Urban Environments

Authors:
Isaac Flores Trávez, Carla Flores Trávez
Charred Wood Cladding Enhances Compact Living Solutions in Urban Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding and efficient modular design, this compact urban dwelling offers a sustainable solution for modern living while fostering community interaction among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood cladding for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance.
03
Features a flexible modular design that supports various living configurations.
04
Integrates solar energy systems for sustainable energy use.
05
Encourages community interaction through shared outdoor spaces.

## Overview

Located in Quito, Ecuador, the project addresses the urgent need for affordable housing in a landscape characterized by rising living costs and fragmented urban development. By employing micro-living concepts, the design proposes a 25m² housing solution that maximizes functionality within a limited footprint, while promoting community interaction among residents through shared spaces.

## Spatial Organization

The layout encompasses a total area of 24.7 m², effectively divided into essential living zones including a sleeping area of 11 m², a living room of 13 m², a 5 m² bathroom, a workspace of 11 m², and integrated kitchen and storage details. The arrangement facilitates a fluid transition between various functional areas while maintaining privacy through strategic spatial divisions. This design also features dynamic spaces that can adapt to the needs of occupants. The innovative use of transformable areas allows for a versatile living experience, emphasizing flexibility and accommodating diverse family activities.

The concept also integrates communal areas that enhance social interaction among neighbors, fostering a sense of community essential to urban living. When multiple units are clustered, these shared environments create opportunities for communal engagement, enriching residents' experiences.

## Material Selection

Sustainability and practicality are central to the material choices, which include:

1. **Metallic Roof Cladding**: Offers durability and resilience against adverse weather.
2. **Concrete Flooring**: Provides structural support and ease of maintenance.
3. **Kingspan Troldtekt Acoustic Ceiling Tiles**: Enhance sound insulation for a peaceful indoor environment.
4. **Zip Panels**: Used for wall and ceiling finishes, ensuring aesthetic appeal with efficient installation.
5. **Charred Wood Cladding**: Combines a modern look with resistance to decay and pests.

These materials not only ensure functionality but also reflect an environmentally conscious approach, addressing both architectural integrity and ecological sustainability. Integration of solar energy systems further underscores the design's commitment to sustainability while reducing reliance on traditional energy sources.

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

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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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