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Charred Wood Shingles and Low-Emission Glass Elevate a Compact Living Space

Author:
Gabriela sara Grzanka
Charred Wood Shingles and Low-Emission Glass Elevate a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles and expansive low-emission glass, the design seamlessly integrates sustainable materials into a compact living space tailored for the dynamic lifestyle of digital nomads.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainable sourcing.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes space and promotes natural light flow.
04
Includes a modular layout allowing for easy expansion or reconfiguration as needs change.
05
Integrates energy-efficient systems with solar panels for self-sufficiency and reduced utility costs.
The Digital Nomad Home is an architectural project designed to cater to the modern lifestyle of individuals who prioritize mobility and flexibility in their living arrangements. This project represents a thoughtful response to the growing number of digital nomads—people able to work remotely while traveling frequently. The primary function of this home is to create an adaptable living space that seamlessly integrates work and leisure, addressing the unique needs of those who often move between locations.

At its core, the Digital Nomad Home is composed of three distinct phases, each representing an evolution of the living space. The initial phase, known as The Cube, serves as the foundational unit for the home. It maintains a compact structure that resembles a modern camper, aesthetically pleasing while ensuring efficient use of space. Inside The Cube, essential amenities are carefully laid out, including a small kitchen, a versatile living area that converts into a sleeping space, and a compact bathroom. This multifunctional approach minimizes wasted space, making it perfect for individuals or couples looking for a simplified lifestyle.

The second phase is referred to as The Crow's Nest, an extension added above The Cube. This design introduces more room for a bedroom, enhancing the overall living space while still prioritizing functionality. The layout encourages verticality through a mezzanine design that not only uses space intelligently but also offers a sense of openness and airiness. The combination of these elements creates a cozy yet spacious environment that serves both comfort and utility.

Further expanding upon this concept is The Honeycomb, the third and final phase that encompasses the breadth of the Digital Nomad Home's potential. This phase adds a terrace and additional living areas, catering to the needs of those who may require extra room, be it for a growing family or for more extensive social gatherings. The design encourages interaction and relaxation by integrating outdoor spaces that serve as extensions of the interior living areas.

A crucial aspect of the Digital Nomad Home is its materiality, which thoughtfully blends aesthetics with sustainability. The project utilizes wood paneling for the cladding, glass elements for transparency and natural light, and sustainable finishes to ensure an environmentally responsible approach. Insulation materials play a critical role in energy efficiency, while metal supporting structures ensure durability and resilience. The incorporation of solar panels further underscores the project's dedication to sustainability, allowing the home to operate independently from traditional energy sources.

This architectural design embodies a minimalist philosophy that resonates deeply with the values of its intended users. By focusing on multifunctional spaces and efficient layouts, the Digital Nomad Home effectively reduces clutter and encourages a simpler lifestyle. The large glass surfaces create fluid connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing inhabitants to fully engage with their natural surroundings.

The unique design approaches manifested in this project emphasize adaptability and sustainability, appealing to the dynamic nature of modern living. The modular design allows each phase to function on its own yet offers the potential for expansion, making it suitable for various stages of life. This flexibility provides an attractive solution for contemporary housing needs, especially for those who embrace a nomadic lifestyle.

For readers interested in delving deeper into the architectural details and design intricacies of the Digital Nomad Home, exploring the project presentation is highly encouraged. Reviewing elements such as architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas can offer enhanced insights into the thoughtful execution of this innovative project, showcasing how it effectively addresses the challenges of modern living.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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