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Charred Wood Shingles and Eco-Insulation in Compact Community Living

Author:
Qi Cai
Charred Wood Shingles and Eco-Insulation in Compact Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and innovative eco-insulation methods, this compact community living solution redefines sustainable design in an urban landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to minimize environmental impact.
05
Promotes social interaction through strategically placed communal areas.

## Overview

The Micro Neighborhood project is situated within a verdant context and focuses on creating compact, intimate living spaces. The primary intent of the development is to foster community engagement while maximizing the utility of a 25-square-meter micro house. By balancing private and communal areas, the design encourages both solitude and interaction among residents, fundamentally reshaping the traditional residential layout.

### Spatial Organization and Connectivity

The design employs a strategic layout that promotes connectivity among residents through a careful arrangement of spaces. Functional areas such as dining, living, and storage are organized to prioritize social interaction while respecting individual privacy. The integration of winding pathways allows for ease of movement between units, enhancing the pedestrian experience. This thoughtful spatial strategy not only nurtures communal relationships but also enables residents to retreat to personal spaces when necessary.

### Sustainable Materiality

A commitment to sustainability is reflected in the project's material selection. Key materials include concrete for structural elements, providing durability, and wood, which adds warmth to the design. Polycarbonate is utilized for windows and doors, optimizing natural light while maintaining privacy. Additionally, green roofs contribute to insulation and biodiversity, underscoring the holistic approach to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems further reduces the ecological footprint, aligning with contemporary sustainability practices.

By utilizing modular construction methods, the Micro Neighborhood not only enhances building efficiency but also allows for adaptability, catering to evolving resident needs over time. The innovative design fosters a strong sense of community while prioritizing functionality and sustainability within urban living.

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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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