Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Shingles and Sustainable Sand Foundations in a Community-Centric Home

Author:
Alexander TomÁŠ GuliŠek
Charred Wood Shingles and Sustainable Sand Foundations in a Community-Centric Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and thermal sand mass to seamlessly blend with its environment, this design fosters community interaction while promoting sustainable living in a thoughtfully structured home.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wood shingles enhances both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Thermal sand mass is integrated into the design to improve energy efficiency and regulate indoor temperatures.
03
A circular central courtyard promotes natural light and fosters community interaction among residents.
04
Multi-functional spaces are designed to adapt to changing household needs over time.
05
Sustainable materials, including reclaimed resources, minimize environmental impact while enhancing durability.
The project "Where is My House?" offers a thoughtful take on residential architecture, demonstrating a balanced approach to design, functionality, and environmental integration. Situated in a landscape that celebrates natural surroundings and encourages sustainable living, this architectural endeavor seeks to redefine home by fostering a sense of belonging and community.

The primary function of this project is to provide a dwelling that does not merely accommodate its residents but also enhances their lifestyle through thoughtful design. The house embraces a concept of transparency and connectivity, utilizing a circular central courtyard that serves as the heart of the home. This innovative spatial organization invites an abundance of natural light and airflow, creating a comfortable atmosphere that promotes interaction among family members while maintaining an intimate connection with the outdoor environment.

Key elements of the design include a selection of materials that align closely with the principles of sustainability and durability. Concrete is employed for its structural integrity and longevity, forming the foundation upon which the rest of the project can thrive. In contrast, glass is used to create a seamless relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for unobstructed views of the surrounding greenery and enhancing natural light penetration. Wood is incorporated into both the structural and aesthetic components, offering warmth and an organic quality to the interiors, while sand serves a practical role in thermal mass solutions, aiding in temperature regulation throughout the year.

The architecture integrates several unique design approaches that contribute to its overall effectiveness. For example, the layout encourages the use of multi-functional spaces, accommodating various household needs and fostering flexibility in how rooms are utilized over time. This fluidity is particularly relevant in modern living, where households may evolve in composition and requirements.

Passive environmental strategies are paramount in the design, showcasing an intentional focus on energy efficiency. The home is oriented to harness the benefits of natural light while avoiding overheating through thoughtful placement of openings that facilitate natural cross-ventilation. This strategic position aims to reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, showcasing the commitment to ecological sustainability.

Community engagement is another critical aspect of the project. The proposed layout enhances permeability within the neighborhood, promoting social interactions among residents while addressing the isolation typically found in suburban environments. The introduction of communal gardens alongside private outdoor spaces creates a vibrant landscape that invites both personal reflection and social gatherings.

In essence, "Where is My House?" encapsulates a progressive vision for residential architecture, one that harmonizes inhabitant needs with environmental stewardship. The project is a manifestation of architectural ideas that respect the context while inviting modern living practices. Its innovative material palette, adaptive use of space, and emphasis on connecting community with nature set a new standard for future residential developments.

Readers interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs of this project are encouraged to delve deeper into its presentations. Comprehensive insights into the architectural intentions and detailed layouts will enhance the understanding of this thoughtfully crafted residential design.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy