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Charred Wood Shingles and Glulam Structure Enhancing Community Connection in a Natural Setting

Author:
Emile Peters
Charred Wood Shingles and Glulam Structure Enhancing Community Connection in a Natural Setting

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and glulam panels, the shelter integrates harmoniously into the Kokas Rags forest, providing a flexible space for yoga and community activities while promoting sustainability and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates voids to maintain visual and physical connections with surrounding trees.
02
Utilizes traditional Yukisugi technique for enhanced durability of charred wood shingles.
03
Features a flexible open layout that supports various community activities beyond yoga.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system and solar panels for energy efficiency.
05
Designed to adapt to seasonal changes, optimizing natural light and ventilation.

# Analytical Report on "Voids of Wild": An Architectural Proposal in Kokas Rags Forest

## Location and Concept

The "Voids of Wild" proposal is situated within the Kokas Rags forest, an area known for its abundant vegetation and tall trees. The design emphasizes a connection between architecture and the natural environment, aiming to create a multipurpose yoga shelter that is both tranquil and adaptable. Key objectives include the preservation of the forest's integrity—avoiding tree removal—and maximizing integration with the natural surroundings to foster a meaningful relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces.

## Form and Spatial Configuration

The design features a minimalist approach characterized by openings, or "voids," that interact with the existing topography and landscape. This configuration promotes a visual dialogue between the building's internal functions and the surrounding ecosystem.

- **Central Space**: A generously proportioned central area serves diverse activities, such as yoga practice and community gatherings, anchoring the shelter's purpose while highlighting its connection to the environment.

- **Open Layout**: Adjacent to the yoga space, an open kitchen enhances community interaction, allowing for a fluid transition between activities. Private areas, such as bathrooms and storage, are strategically positioned to maintain a sense of tranquility.

## Materiality and Sustainability Features

The material selection is predominantly wood, utilizing layered glulam panels that provide structural stability. Specific details include:

- **Exterior Facade**: Constructed with wood treated through the Yukisugi technique (charred wood), which enhances durability and water resistance.

- **Roof Construction**: Incorporates photovoltaic panels for solar energy harvesting as well as a rainwater collection system, promoting ecological sustainability while integrating with the architectural form.

- **Interior Finishes**: Features polished oak flooring and gently curved wooden ceilings, contributing to a warm, inviting atmosphere that resonates with the surrounding natural forms.

The project prioritizes sustainable practices by aiming for energy efficiency through solar technology and water conservation, while also ensuring that tree preservation is a guiding principle of the design. The integration of expansive glass panels allows for unobstructed views of the forest and facilitates passive cooling and ventilation, reinforcing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The architecture adapts to seasonal variations, ensuring comfort throughout the year by optimizing natural light and airflow.

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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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