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Charred Wooden Louvers and Solar Panels in a Modern Sustainable Residence

Author:
Lara Serhal
Charred Wooden Louvers and Solar Panels in a Modern Sustainable Residence

Project in-detail

Charred wooden louvers, combined with expansive glass facades and integrated solar panels, create an energy-efficient environment in a modern residence designed for sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are used for exterior cladding, enhancing fire resistance and aesthetics.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while reducing the carbon footprint.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space and facilitates natural ventilation.
04
Solar panels are integrated into the roof design for efficient energy generation.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable water management for landscaping.

**Project Overview**

Located in an unspecified region, the project titled "House of the Future" embodies a contemporary approach to residential architecture that intertwines modern technology with sustainable living principles. The design prioritizes ecological balance while catering to the evolving needs of the modern family, aiming to create a residence that serves both its inhabitants and the environment. By meticulously curating every aspect of the home, the design enhances energy efficiency, comfort, and aesthetic appeal.

**Architectural Form and Spatial Strategy**

The architectural style is characterized by Modernism, featuring clean lines and a minimalist form. A multi-layered design incorporates cantilevered slabs that generate dynamic shadows, providing visual depth to the exterior. Large glass panels facilitate natural lighting, effectively merging indoor and outdoor environments. The ground floor encompasses flexible spaces, such as an expansive living and dining area, a modern kitchen, and an outdoor seating zone adjacent to a swimming pool, fostering interaction among residents. The private areas, including multiple en-suite bedrooms on the first floor, are designed for comfort and privacy, with the master suite positioned to offer scenic views.

**Sustainability and Material Selection**

Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design, employing materials that reflect the project's ecological ethos. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity, while extensive use of glass optimizes lighting and visual connectivity with the outdoor space. Wood is incorporated into elements such as louvers and decking to add warmth, complemented by steel reinforcements. Non-toxic, eco-friendly finishes enhance indoor air quality. The residence features renewable energy systems including solar panels, a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation, and landscaping with native plant species, all contributing to environmental stewardship and resource efficiency.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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