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Charred Wooden Screens and Permeable Landscapes in Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Maurizio Barberio, Angelo Figliola, Micaela Colella
Charred Wooden Screens and Permeable Landscapes in Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with chiseled charred wooden screens and designed for optimal thermal regulation, this residential space integrates modular units within a sustainable landscape to meet contemporary living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and rapid assembly.
03
Features water management systems that optimize rainwater harvesting for irrigation.
04
Includes biophilic design elements that create seamless connections between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Utilizes a modular layout allowing for easy future expansions and adaptability.

### Overview
The architectural design for New Roots is set in the United Arab Emirates, reflecting a contemporary vision of residential living that integrates cultural heritage with modern innovations. The intent is to create a sustainable living environment that addresses the current and future needs of the community while respecting the local context. Key design principles center around modularity, environmental sustainability, and cultural resonance.

### Spatial Organization
The spatial strategy incorporates a thoughtful layout, wherein communal areas on the ground floor—such as the living room and dining space—foster social interaction, while private spaces are allocated to the upper levels. Large windows and strategically placed open-air courtyards allow for the infiltration of natural light and facilitate cross-ventilation, enhancing the overall spatial experience. The modular design promotes flexibility, allowing for future expansions as needed.

### Material Selection
Materials utilized in the construction emphasize both sustainability and functionality. Prefabricated concrete forms the structural backbone, enabling efficient site assembly. The facade features 3D-printed ceramic tiles that reflect traditional designs, offering a connection to cultural heritage through contemporary methods. A substantial glass façade provides natural illumination and views of exterior landscapes, while strategically placed wood elements contribute warmth and texture throughout the interiors, improving spatial comfort.

### Innovative Features
New Roots incorporates a comprehensive photovoltaic system consisting of 52 solar panels, generating approximately 37,944 kWh annually, which underscores the commitment to energy autonomy. Water management systems, including rainwater harvesting and a storage capacity of 500 liters, support efficient resource use. Additionally, the design features passive cooling and ventilation mechanisms, utilizing operable grilles and water bodies to enhance thermal comfort while reducing dependence on mechanical systems.

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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

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