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Charred Wooden Shingles and Aluminum Facades in Compact Autonomous Living Units

Author:
Aleh Markelau
Charred Wooden Shingles and Aluminum Facades in Compact Autonomous Living Units

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and aluminum facades, these compact autonomous living units exemplify modern sustainable design while seamlessly integrating into diverse natural environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity while minimizing weight.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design for increased spatial efficiency and unique visual character.
04
Designed for easy transport and installation in remote locations, promoting accessibility.
05
Modular elements allow for multifunctional spaces tailored to diverse living needs.

## Project Overview

Situated in various remote locations, the design aims to create autonomous living spaces that integrate advanced technologies with natural environments. The intent is to fulfill contemporary demands for sustainability, connectivity to nature, and functional living solutions within diverse geographical contexts. The concept emphasizes a harmonious relationship between human habitats and the surrounding ecosystems.

### Spatial Strategy and Adaptability

The architectural layout features compact, multifunctional units designed to accommodate a range of environments, from wooded landscapes to arctic regions. The design emphasizes modularity and efficiency, with spaces that can serve multiple purposes, such as a living area that converts from a sleeping space to a dining area. This flexibility underscores the project’s commitment to adaptability and ease of transport or installation in varying climatic conditions.

### Materiality and Sustainability

A strategic selection of materials is integral to achieving the project’s goals. Durable aluminum cladding contributes to a modern aesthetic while ensuring weather resistance. Large glass panels enhance natural light and visual connectivity with the outdoors, promoting an open and inviting atmosphere. In addition, the use of composite materials for insulation addresses energy efficiency, particularly in extreme climates. Sustainable wood, sourced from reclaimed or responsibly managed forests, reinforces the ecological focus of the design. These material choices collectively work to minimize the overall environmental impact while enhancing user experience.

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

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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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