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Charred Wood Facade and Triple-Glazed Windows in Compact Urban Home

Author:
Natascha Fischer
Charred Wood Facade and Triple-Glazed Windows in Compact Urban Home
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With a charred wood facade and triple-glazed windows, this compact urban home integrates sustainable features such as solar panels and rainwater collection, offering a functional living space in a limited footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wood facade enhances durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Triple-glazed windows improve energy efficiency and sound insulation.
03
Integrated solar panels support off-grid living capabilities.
04
Compact layout optimizes space for multifunctional use.
05
Rainwater collection system minimizes resource consumption.

Micro Home 2019 offers a fresh take on compact living by focusing on efficiency and sustainability within a small space. Located in an urban environment, the residence addresses the needs of modern life, balancing essential daily functions with a design that connects well with its surroundings. The design aims to blend public and private spaces, allowing for easy movement and comfort throughout the home.

Spatial Organization

The layout carefully organizes functional areas for storage, a WC/shower, sleeping, cooking, and living/working. Each zone serves a specific purpose, making the most of the limited area available. This thoughtful arrangement facilitates smooth circulation, allowing occupants to move effortlessly between different sections of the home.

Natural Light and Views

Natural light is a crucial aspect of the design. The building’s elevations have been positioned to maximize sunlight, particularly with the east elevation, which captures morning light. This feature enhances the interior environment, creating a bright and inviting space that encourages a connection to the outdoor surroundings.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is integrated into the home through the use of energy systems like solar panels and rainwater collection. These elements reflect an effort to minimize the environmental impact of the home. By using renewable resources, the design enhances functionality and meets the demand for environmentally friendly living.

Construction and Materials

Construction details reveal a thoughtful design approach with multiple layers that contribute to the overall performance. The roof includes features such as a solar panel, composting toilet, and heating system. Materials mentioned include wood panels and wood Shou Sugi Ban, which serve both structural and visual purposes. Aluminium frame windows with triple insulated glazing provide thermal efficiency and noise reduction, enhancing the home's durability.

The final design incorporates outdoor spaces that enhance the connection to nature, allowing for easy interaction between indoor and outdoor environments.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

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Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

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