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Charred Wood Shutters and Local Stone Create Seamless Integration with Nature in Sustainable Housing

Author:
Riccardo Nemeth
Charred Wood Shutters and Local Stone Create Seamless Integration with Nature in Sustainable Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shutters and locally sourced stone, this sustainable residence harmonizes with the surrounding landscape while providing a functional and inviting living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local stone as a primary structural element to enhance environmental integration.
02
Employs charred wood for exterior shading, improving durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a wet core design that centralizes essential services for efficiency.
04
Incorporates rainwater harvesting through a uniquely angled roof system.
05
Includes tiered terraces that promote outdoor engagement and nature immersion.
The Xisto Pod is an architectural design project situated in Vale de Moisés, Portugal, near the tranquil banks of the Rio Zêzere. This project embodies a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature, employing local materials and traditional architectural cues to craft a functional living space that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings. The design focuses on sustainability, fostering ecological awareness while offering comfort and modernity to its inhabitants.

Material choice is a fundamental aspect of the Xisto Pod's design. The project utilizes cork for its external finish, which offers insulation and a connection to local traditions. Charred wood is deployed in the horizontal shutters, enhancing durability while providing an appealing aesthetic. Local rocks form the foundation, grounding the structure in the landscape. Matte iron is used for windows and doors, complementing the natural materials with a contemporary touch. Wood features prominently in both the interior walls and ceiling, contributing warmth to the living space.

The spatial organization of the Xisto Pod is centered around user experience. The layout facilitates smooth movement between indoor and outdoor areas, allowing for easy access to stepped terraces that provide opportunities for social interaction, relaxation, and contemplation. These terraces extend the living space, promoting a connection with the surrounding nature. This relationship is accentuated by the project’s wet core design, where essential services such as the kitchen and bathroom are centrally located, enhancing functionality within an open concept framework.

Unique to the Xisto Pod is its adaptive roof design, which angles to collect rainwater efficiently. This harvested water is filtered and stored for reuse, highlighting the project’s commitment to sustainability. The project’s stepped terraces not only offer scenic views but also serve as flexible outdoor spaces for various activities, from quiet reflection to communal gatherings. This adaptability reflects modern living demands while respecting the ecological context.

The architectural design of Xisto Pod represents an evolution of traditional Portuguese architecture, merging modern aesthetics with environmental considerations. The emphasis on local materials and innovative design strategies positions this project as a relevant case study in contemporary architecture. For those interested in architectural plans, sections, and designs that illustrate these concepts further, detailed presentations are available for exploration.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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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
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