Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Facade and Modular Design Transforming Urban Rooftops into Functional Living Spaces

Authors:
Maryam Kiani Shahvandi, Eleftheria Tsekoura
Charred Wood Facade and Modular Design Transforming Urban Rooftops into Functional Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood for its facade and a modular design approach, this urban dwelling seamlessly transforms rooftop spaces into efficient and sustainable living environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project integrates greywater recycling systems for efficient water management.
02
Larch wood cladding provides natural weather resistance while enhancing aesthetics.
03
Large sliding doors create seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces.
04
A multifunctional roof terrace extends usable living area beyond the internal footprint.
05
Prefabricated modular units allow for rapid assembly on urban rooftops.
The project, known as Roofhouse, represents a strategic architectural response to urban housing challenges. By transforming rooftop spaces, this design maximizes existing urban structures while promoting sustainable living. Roofhouse is a modular residence that addresses space limitations, offering functional living units within city environments.

The Roofhouse project integrates prefabricated modules comprising critical living spaces, including areas designated for cooking, sleeping, and working. The design promotes a compact yet flexible layout that can be adapted to suit various family sizes and lifestyles. The arrangement enhances interaction among residents, encouraging a sense of community in otherwise underutilized spaces.

The architectural approach of Roofhouse is distinguished by its emphasis on sustainability and environmental integration. The structure incorporates green technology, specifically photovoltaic panels, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing the carbon footprint. This modular design utilizes renewable materials such as larch wood, rubber wood, and cork, creating a natural aesthetic while ensuring durability. The inclusion of greywater recycling systems provides efficient water management, further emphasizing the project’s eco-friendly objectives.

A unique aspect of Roofhouse is its outdoor connectivity. The extended roof terrace serves as a multifunctional space, allowing for relaxation and social activities, thus promoting an outdoor lifestyle within urban confines. The project emphasizes natural light through large windows and sliding doors, enhancing the living experience while minimizing reliance on artificial lighting.

The Roofhouse architecture utilizes a combination of insulation materials, including sheep wool, which contributes to energy efficiency and acoustic comfort. The structural framework employs concrete and steel, ensuring robustness while maintaining a lightweight profile ideal for rooftop installation.

Through its innovative design and sustainable practices, Roofhouse sets itself apart from conventional urban housing projects. It provides a scalable solution to housing shortages, exemplifying how architecture can effectively respond to contemporary urban challenges.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas that shape the Roofhouse project, readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation of this innovative design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,249 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy