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Charred Wood Enclosure Embraces Sustainable Living in a Compact Tuscan Nest

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Charred Wood Enclosure Embraces Sustainable Living in a Compact Tuscan Nest
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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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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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