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Charred Wooden Shingles and Carbon-Sequestering Concrete Define a Contemporary Sustainable Residence

Author:
Juan Puigcorbé
Charred Wooden Shingles and Carbon-Sequestering Concrete Define a Contemporary Sustainable Residence

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and carbon-sequestering concrete, this residence embodies a commitment to sustainability while providing adaptable living spaces that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes carbon-sequestering concrete to enhance environmental sustainability.
02
Features a modular grid system for flexible spatial configurations.
03
Incorporates rainwater harvesting technology for resource efficiency.
04
Employs high-performance coatings for improved insulation and durability.
05
Integrates biophilic design principles to foster a connection with nature.

### Overview

Located in an evolving urban context, the design aims to address contemporary architectural needs while prioritizing sustainability and integration with the natural environment. The project emphasizes a personalized approach to living spaces, reflecting the identities and requirements of its inhabitants through its innovative architectural solutions.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The spatial configuration promotes fluid transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, facilitating a balance of private and communal areas. This arrangement enhances user experience by encouraging interaction while also providing spaces for solitude. The design anticipates future modifications through modular systems, allowing for flexibility and adaptability in response to lifestyle changes. Integration of ground source heat pumps and rainwater harvesting systems reinforces resource efficiency, further aligning the project with sustainable living practices.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A diverse range of materials has been employed to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. Structural steel profiles form the grid framework, ensuring durability and design flexibility. High-performance coatings improve insulation and reduce maintenance, while lightweight cladding systems dynamically respond to environmental conditions, optimizing energy consumption. The use of special carbon-sequestering concrete materials contributes positively to the ecological footprint. Additionally, the incorporation of smart technology, including solar panels, aligns with a commitment to renewable energy and efficient resource management.

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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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