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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create A Dynamic Retreat Emphasizing Nature Interaction

Authors:
Rinaldo D’alessandro, Gabriele Gentilomo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create A Dynamic Retreat Emphasizing Nature Interaction

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design emphasizes seamless interaction with the surrounding landscape while creating a flexible living space that adapts to various functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal while minimizing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength and sustainability for the lightweight design.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the living space.
04
Movable interior elements allow multifunctionality and adaptability to user needs.
05
The design integrates seamlessly with the landscape to preserve natural topography and ecosystem.

The Sliding Pods project represents a thoughtful exploration of modern architecture aimed at creating adaptable living spaces that harmonize with nature. The design focuses on sustainable practices, utilizing natural materials and innovative construction techniques to minimize ecological impact. By prioritizing an interactive experience, this architecture facilitates a connection between the inhabitants and their environment.

The central concept of the project revolves around flexibility and modularity, with a design that allows the structure to respond to various user needs and environmental conditions. Sliding roofs and movable interior elements enable the space to transform according to specific uses, whether for relaxation or social interaction. This dynamic setup blends functionality with simplicity, resulting in a minimalist space that promotes well-being and mindfulness.

The primary materials identified in this project include wood, which serves as the main structural element, and transparent panels that foster light and connectivity with the surroundings. The choice of these materials reflects an eco-conscious design philosophy, ensuring that the project aligns with sustainability goals. Moreover, the integration of insulation materials and potential energy-efficient technologies further emphasizes the project’s commitment to resource conservation.

Unique Design Approaches
One of the notable aspects of the Sliding Pods project is the incorporation of moving roof elements, allowing for a greater degree of environmental interaction. This feature strategically facilitates the harnessing of solar energy and maximizes natural ventilation, enhancing thermal performance. Additionally, the design minimizes its physical footprint, resting lightly on the landscape to preserve the existing ecosystem while ensuring that the living space aesthetically complements its setting.

Another distinct feature involves the use of adaptable furniture and internal configurations. This allows inhabitants to customize their living environment easily, accommodating different activities and preferences. The approach encourages a lifestyle that is not only functional but also promotes a deep engagement with natural surroundings, contributing to the overall quality of life for occupants.

Integrated Living Spaces
The interior design focuses on creating a welcoming atmosphere with an emphasis on natural light. The strategic arrangement of transparent elements and the configuration of internal spaces foster an openness that blurs the boundary between inside and outside. This integration enhances the user experience, facilitating a sense of tranquility while encouraging contact with nature.

Each element of the design has been carefully considered to maximize its utility and aesthetic value while maintaining clarity and simplicity. The combination of sustainable material choices, adaptive functionality, and thoughtful architectural planning positions the Sliding Pods project as a noteworthy example of contemporary architecture.

For a deeper understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more details. The insights gained will enhance appreciation for the unique architectural ideas that underscore this innovative design.

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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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