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Charred Wooden Cladding and Thermal Mass Integration in a Residential Setting

Authors:
Thakan Navapakpilai, Lalinthip Maholarnkij
Charred Wooden Cladding and Thermal Mass Integration in a Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Using charred wooden cladding for durability and thermal mass, this residential design harnesses natural light and ventilation to create a comfortable living environment in Nha Trang.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetics and enhanced durability against weathering.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design facilitates natural light penetration throughout the interior spaces.
04
An integrated central atrium enhances air circulation and creates a multi-functional gathering area.
05
Strategically placed shading devices reduce heat gain while maintaining views of the surrounding landscape.
"Following the Shadow" is an architectural project located in the Pid Cang District of Nha Trang, Vietnam. This residential design focuses on the interaction between natural light and building aesthetics, utilizing its surroundings to create a harmonious living environment. The project is characterized by an open layout that encourages airflow and natural illumination while emphasizing the relationships between indoor and outdoor spaces.

The main function of the project is to provide a comfortable residence that integrates seamlessly with the local climate. It is centered around passive energy strategies that reduce reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The design allows for varying levels of privacy and communal interaction through a fluid spatial organization, making it suitable for family living.

The architectural elements feature a combination of concrete, glass, wood, and steel. This palette not only enhances the structural integrity of the design but also provides engaging visual contrasts. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, enabling dynamic forms and robust foundations, while glass allows for expansive views and the modulation of light across different times of the day. Wood introduces warmth to the interior spaces, creating a tactile contrast to the cooler materials, and steel provides essential support for the overall framework.

The central atrium serves as a pivotal design element, allowing light to permeate through the house while providing a focused outdoor space accessible from multiple rooms. The design places importance on adaptive openings that create shaded areas, allowing residents to enjoy the outdoors without discomfort from the sun. This approach provides flexibility in how the spaces are used throughout the day.

This project stands out for its attention to light dynamics. By designing with the sun’s path in mind, the residence not only evolves texture and light within the space but also cultivates unique environments depending on the time of day. The interplay of shadows and light patterns enhances visual interest and emotional response from the inhabitants.

For those interested in deeper insights into the architectural aspects of "Following the Shadow," reviewing the architectural plans and sections will provide a comprehensive understanding of the spatial relationships and design decisions. Exploring the architectural ideas behind this project will reveal the intricate thought processes that led to its unique outcomes.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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