Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Sustainable Family Residence

Author:
Jose Garzon
Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Sustainable Family Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and clad in charred wood shingles, this sustainable residence integrates modular design with extensive glazing to create a cohesive living environment for modern families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetics.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and light.
04
Incorporates an energy-efficient rainwater collection system.
05
Designed for modular expansion to adapt to changing family needs.

### Overview
The Prefab Ecohouse project is situated in the United Arab Emirates and aims to address contemporary housing demands through a sustainable and efficient design. The project integrates modern construction practices with cultural references to traditional Arab architecture, focusing on minimizing environmental impact while fulfilling the needs of modern living. It emphasizes adaptability in the spatial organization and the selection of materials, catering to evolving family dynamics in a rapidly changing urban landscape.

### Spatial Organization
The spatial arrangement of the Prefab Ecohouse is designed with a clear focus on functionality and social interaction. The ground floor integrates essential living spaces, such as the living room, dining area, and kitchen, all linked to an outdoor sunken table and pool area that promotes outdoor engagement. Private areas, including service rooms, are discreetly incorporated to maintain a harmonious living environment.

On the first floor, four bedrooms are strategically positioned to ensure privacy while fostering communal connections through shared spaces. This arrangement reflects traditional values while accommodating contemporary family needs. The design also allows for potential future expansion, showcasing a flexible approach to residential living that responds to the changing requirements of its occupants.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The Prefab Ecohouse employs a set of sustainable materials that contribute to its ecological narrative. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) serves as the primary structural element, providing strength and thermal efficiency, which facilitates fast construction timelines. Additionally, the use of frameless glazing maximizes natural light and enhances the continuity between indoor and outdoor environments.

A rainwater collection system is incorporated to support self-sufficiency in the arid climate of the UAE, while strategically placed solar panels contribute to energy independence. The selection of low embodied carbon materials further reduces the ecological footprint of the construction process. Together, these features create a cohesive sustainability framework that addresses the region's environmental challenges while offering an efficient and responsive living solution.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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