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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
David Huntly-Grant, Espen Andreassen, Michael Curtis
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates with the mountainous landscape to create a sustainable retreat that offers comfortable accommodation and communal spaces for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural stability and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while minimizing material use.
04
Integrates photovoltaic systems into the roof to support energy independence.
05
Employs a modular construction approach to allow for flexible usage and phased expansion.

### Project Overview
Located in a mountainous region, the modern mountain hut is designed to enhance visitor experiences while harmonizing with the surrounding landscape. Its dual purpose as a functional retreat and a noteworthy architectural presence seeks to incorporate advanced sustainable technologies with strong aesthetic qualities.

### Spatial Strategy
The design draws inspiration from traditional mountain architecture, integrating modular elements that facilitate flexibility in layout and usage. This approach allows the structure to adapt to various environmental conditions and user needs. The interior features open-plan spaces that encourage communal interaction, paired with strategically placed partitions that maintain privacy. Large windows and sliding doors optimize natural light, creating a strong visual connection to the outdoors.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Utilizing natural materials such as timber and stone, the design establishes a warm ambiance while also contributing to thermal performance. The exterior is characterized by an angular roofline and expansive glass façades, which not only provide panoramic views but also enhance the hut's energy performance with the integration of photovoltaic panels. Additional sustainable features include rainwater harvesting systems and advanced insulation techniques, underscoring the commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

### Technological Integration
Advanced building systems, including hydronic heating and smart temperature controls, enhance occupant comfort while maintaining energy efficiency. The sectional drawings illustrate the logical organization of spaces, transitioning smoothly from public areas to private quarters, all designed to support user comfort in a compact footprint.

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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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