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Charred Wood Enclosure Embraces Sustainable Living in a Compact Tuscan Nest

Author:
Nina Mair
Charred Wood Enclosure Embraces Sustainable Living in a Compact Tuscan Nest

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wood and cross-laminated timber, this compact dwelling seamlessly integrates sustainable practices with its serene Tuscan landscape to create a functional living unit.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior volume while minimizing material use.
04
Utilizes rainwater harvesting systems to promote sustainable water management.
05
Positioned within an olive grove, providing seamless integration with the natural landscape.

## Project Overview

The Guerilla Box is situated in Tuscany, Italy, amidst a landscape characterized by rolling hills and olive groves. This design seeks to redefine contemporary living by emphasizing minimalism, comfort, and sustainability. It serves as a versatile living unit, capable of relocation and adaptation to diverse environments, promoting an integrated relationship with nature.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial arrangement is oriented towards functionality and comfort, featuring an open-concept living and dining area that connects seamlessly with the outdoors through large windows, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The kitchen is compact yet efficient, designed to facilitate social interaction while conserving space. Key private areas, such as the bathroom and bedroom, are thoughtfully planned to maximize usability while ensuring privacy. Flexible elements such as sliding doors allow users to modify space configurations according to their needs.

### Environmental Considerations

This project emphasizes sustainability through several initiatives. Renewable energy sources, including solar panels and a wind turbine, are incorporated into the design to enhance energy efficiency. Water management strategies feature rainwater harvesting and environmentally responsible wastewater solutions, significantly minimizing ecological impacts. The integration of outdoor terraces further encourages interaction with the natural environment, allowing for a cohesive living experience that respects and enhances the local ecosystem.

### Materiality

Material choices reflect both aesthetic and functional intentions. The facade is clad in charred wood, which provides durability while contributing to a striking visual presence. Inside, warm-toned woods create an inviting atmosphere, while expansive glass elements facilitate natural light and outdoor connectivity. The use of timber for the structural frame offers both strength and flexibility, and high-performance insulated glass enhances thermal efficiency, promoting a sustainable indoor climate.

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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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