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Charred Wood Shingles and Green Roof Integration in a Triangular Elderly Residence

Authors:
Nicholas Cigalotti, Nicholas Agostini, Beatrice Cenzato, Matteo Donazzolo
Charred Wood Shingles and Green Roof Integration in a Triangular Elderly Residence

Project in-detail

With a distinctive triangular shape and a facade crafted from charred wood shingles, the building integrates a green roof to promote sustainability while providing a nurturing environment for elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building's facade employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Integrates a green roof to improve insulation and promote biodiversity on-site.
03
Features a triangular layout that maximizes natural light and fosters community interaction.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
05
Incorporates a central courtyard that enhances social connectivity among residents.

### Project Overview

The Twin Fusion project is designed as a residence for the elderly, located in the Leiria region of Portugal. The design seeks to honor local vernacular architecture while responding to the specific needs of its residents. By combining modern architectural techniques with traditional aesthetics, the project aims to create a functional living environment that reflects the identity of the region.

### Spatial Organization and Community Interaction

The architectural concept is centered around a triangular layout that fosters both social connectivity and privacy. A central courtyard serves as the communal focal point, encouraging interaction among residents while providing private areas for relaxation. The open-plan configuration supports natural surveillance, enhancing safety and accessibility for elderly users. Various multifunctional spaces, including dining and recreational areas, are designed with elder-friendly materials to facilitate ease of use and promote a sense of community.

### Material Choice and Sustainable Practices

The project employs a strategic selection of materials that blend traditional and contemporary elements. Key materials include concrete for structural integrity, large glass windows for natural light and visual connection to the outdoors, and wood to introduce warmth into the living spaces. The use of aluminum for roofing and facade elements ensures durability. A green roof system enhances insulation, mitigates rainwater runoff, and supports local biodiversity. Efficient heating and cooling systems further contribute to the project's sustainable ethos, prioritizing environmental responsibility alongside resident well-being.

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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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