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Charred Wood Shingles and Expansive Glass Envelop a Compact Urban Dwelling

Authors:
Daniel Micah Edlesonstein, Jeffrey Lee Edleson
Charred Wood Shingles and Expansive Glass Envelop a Compact Urban Dwelling

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass, the design creates a seamless connection with nature while addressing urban housing needs in a compact living unit.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that improve structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design optimizing interior space and aesthetics.
04
Large glass walls provide abundant natural light and visual connectivity to the outdoors.
05
Adaptable interior elements allow for multifunctional use in a compact footprint.

## Analytical Report: West Seattle Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU)

### Overview
Located in West Seattle, this Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit (DADU) is designed to integrate with the diverse urban and natural landscapes characteristic of the area. The intent of the project is to create a functional living space that fosters a connection with the surrounding environment while maximizing usability in a compact footprint.

### Spatial Configuration
The design employs an open layout strategy, where large glass walls and strategically positioned skylights create an airy atmosphere that allows for abundant natural light. The arrangement of flexible furniture, including fold-out beds and convertible desks, enhances the adaptability of the interior space to meet the needs of various residents, whether for single occupancy, hosting guests, or remote work activities. Additionally, the inclusion of gardens and large windows emphasizes a harmonious relationship with nature, enhancing both visual appeal and resident well-being.

### Material Selection
The construction utilizes a thoughtful palette of materials, chosen for both aesthetic and functional qualities. The extensive use of wood throughout the structure imparts warmth and texture, while large glass panels provide transparency and promote natural light penetration. Concrete flooring and outdoor patios contribute durability and modernity, and steel elements reinforce structural integrity, particularly in the roof trusses. This combination of materials not only supports the overall design but also aligns with sustainable building practices by minimizing the need for artificial lighting and promoting a prolonged lifespan for the dwelling.

The West Seattle DADU exemplifies a practical response to contemporary housing demands, addressing both community integration and environmental considerations.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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