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Charred Wooden Facades and Natural Landscapes in a Community-Centric Retreat

Author:
Caitlin Young
Charred Wooden Facades and Natural Landscapes in a Community-Centric Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden facades that blend with the surrounding landscape, the design creates an inviting space for community interaction while celebrating sustainable materials and thoughtful connectivity to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features charred wooden shingles that enhance fire resistance while blending with the environment.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and reduce the building's carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Integrated green roofs support local biodiversity and improve thermal insulation.
05
Flexible interior spaces are adaptable for various community activities and events.
The architectural project "Elongated Lines" is a thoughtful exploration of space and form, designed to blend seamlessly with its natural surroundings while promoting functionality and user engagement. The design represents a harmonious interaction between architecture and landscape, where the elongated lines create a sense of continuity that extends both visually and physically into the environment. These lines are not merely an aesthetic choice; they support the overall purpose of the building, emphasizing connectivity and flow among various spaces.

This project serves multiple functions, catering to communal and private needs alike. The careful arrangement of spaces within the design ensures that every area is purposefully planned to encourage interaction while providing opportunities for solitude. This balance is essential in a world where social dynamics are increasingly important, and users seek both community and personal space. The layout invites users to explore and engage, without feeling confined, fostering a sense of belonging and comfort within the architecture.

A key feature of the project is its materiality, which plays a significant role in grounding the design within its context. The use of exposed concrete provides structural integrity and a tactile quality, while timber cladding adds warmth and a natural element that resonates with the outdoor environment. The inclusion of large glass openings promotes transparency, inviting natural light into the interior and offering unobstructed views of the landscape. This transparency enhances the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, reinforcing the concept of elongated lines that guide movement towards nature.

The building's green roofs feature native vegetation, promoting biodiversity and ecological sustainability. This design approach not only facilitates insulation and energy efficiency but also enhances the aesthetic quality of the building, creating spaces that users can enjoy while contributing to their surroundings. These unique elements reflect a commitment to environmentally conscious design, illustrating how architecture can effectively respond to ecological concerns while remaining functional and inviting.

In terms of spatial configuration, the project incorporates outdoor terraces that act as transitional spaces, further blurring the lines between the built environment and nature. These terraces provide opportunities for social interaction, allowing users to gather while simultaneously enjoying the views of the surrounding landscape. The diverse arrangement of spaces, including flexible areas for various activities, underscores the adaptability of the design in accommodating the needs of diverse user groups.

The design philosophy behind "Elongated Lines" stands out due to its focus on creating a dialogue between architecture and the natural world. By emphasizing continuity and integration, the project moves beyond traditional boundaries, offering experiences that resonate on multiple levels. This approach invites users to engage thoughtfully with their environment, making the space not just a physical structure but an integral part of the landscape.

For those interested in a deeper understanding of the architectural details, aspects such as the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provide valuable insights into the project’s framework and execution. Exploring these elements can illuminate the thoughtful ideas that shaped this project and enhance one's appreciation for its design and function. The interplay of space, light, and materiality in "Elongated Lines" exemplifies how architecture can navigate the complexities of modern living, making it a noteworthy study for anyone invested in the field.
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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
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