Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Artis Miezītis, Artis2 Miezītis2
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design exemplifies a sustainable approach while serving as a multifunctional community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a living roof that enhances biodiversity while providing natural insulation.
02
Features modular spaces that can adapt to various community functions.
03
Utilizes a unique combination of charred wooden shingles for durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Employs high-performance glazing systems to maximize natural light while minimizing energy loss.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management and usage.

### Overview

The project is situated in a digitally rendered landscape characterized by an ethereal atmosphere infused with both surreal and naturalistic elements. The intent is to explore the emotional resonance of space through distinct thematic representations of contrasting environments—an otherworldly landscape marked by dramatic lighting, and a vivid forest scene that emphasizes seasonal transformation. Each setting provides a platform for contemplation, revealing deeper connections with nature and the human experience.

### Spatial Characteristics

The first depicted landscape features undulating topography, which creates a sense of depth and scale. The interplay of darkness and a mysterious light source evokes a sense of movement and discovery, drawing the viewer's eye through the space. Key visual elements include the commanding peaks set against the soft contours of the grassy plains, which introduce a tactile quality through contrasting textures. The composition's gradient colors accentuate the contrasts between light and shadow, suggesting layers of visibility and obscurity.

In the second representation, lush foliage frames the scene, creating a protective canopy that immerses the viewer in vibrant autumnal hues. The composition presents a blurred background that encourages exploration, inviting the observer to delve deeper into the forest. The rich colors and soft light filtering through the trees foster a tranquil yet dynamic mood, suggesting themes of renewal and vitality. The trees and their lively leaves serve as symbols of the cyclical nature of life, reinforcing the depth of the spatial experience.

### Material Expression

Though digital in nature, the rendered landscapes evoke natural materials that symbolize the essence of the settings. In the first image, elements such as grass reflect growth, while the rugged textures of stones convey permanence. The ethereal quality of air and light adds to a sense of transcendence. In contrast, the second image hints at organic materials like tree bark, which represents resilience, and the diverse foliage that embodies the vibrancy of change. The ground's textural shadow signifies the often-unseen foundation of life, enhancing the experiential quality of the space. Each visual narrative not only showcases physical beauty but also encapsulates complex emotional and conceptual themes, encouraging reflection and engagement with the environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`

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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy