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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Eco-Friendly Microhomes for Community Living

Authors:
Martín Peluffo, Mauricio González
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Eco-Friendly Microhomes for Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this eco-village seamlessly integrates sustainable building practices into a community-focused design that encourages social interaction and self-sufficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels allow for quick assembly and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Each microhome includes integrated rainwater collection systems for sustainable water management.
04
The design features an innovative bent A-frame architecture that maximizes natural light and space efficiency.
05
Community agricultural areas are incorporated to promote local food production and self-sustainability.
The Eco-Village project is an inspiring architectural design that embodies a vision of sustainable living, focusing on community interaction and environmental responsibility. Designed to serve as a micro-community, the project emphasizes the importance of combining human habitats with nature, thus promoting a lifestyle that respects ecological balance while meeting contemporary living standards. This project represents an innovative approach to residential architecture, intertwining sustainability principles with functional design to create a harmonious living environment.

At the heart of the Eco-Village is its commitment to fostering a sense of community. The layout encourages social engagement among residents through shared spaces, walkable pathways, and bicycle-friendly infrastructure. This arrangement minimizes the need for vehicular traffic, allowing for healthier lifestyles and enhanced social connections. The interplay of private and communal areas fosters inclusivity and collaboration, making it more than just a collection of homes but rather a cohesive community designed to thrive together.

The architecture of the Eco-Village is characterized by its use of cross-laminated timber, which forms the structural backbone of the buildings. This material choice not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also aligns with sustainable building practices by minimizing the carbon footprint of construction. The facade features sustainably sourced wood, adding warmth and texture to the design while seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings. Solar photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roofs, taking advantage of renewable energy sources and further enhancing the sustainability profile of the project.

One of the standout elements of this project is its incorporation of various life-support systems. The Eco-Village includes dedicated agricultural spaces where residents can cultivate their own food, fostering a sense of self-sufficiency and connection to the land. The design also enhances water management through features such as rainwater collection systems and a waste treatment plant, which contribute to the overall ecological efficiency of the community. These elements are systematically integrated, reflecting an in-depth understanding of the relationship between architecture and environment.

The community center serves as the social heart of the Eco-Village, providing a space for events, gatherings, and shared activities. It is thoughtfully positioned to promote accessibility and visibility, reinforcing the project's commitment to fostering interpersonal connections. The architecture of this space is kept in line with the overall design ethos, maintaining the same stylistic elements of wood and innovative spatial planning that characterize the MICROHOMES.

Architecturally, the project adopts unique approaches to spatial organization and material use. The irregular geometric forms of the buildings create visual interest and challenge traditional residential layouts. This design strategy not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also allows for varied interior configurations that can be customized to meet different resident needs. The overall design promotes flexibility, addressing the evolving dynamics of community living.

With a strong focus on functionality, the Eco-Village supports sustainable living through its integration of crucial architectural elements. From energy-efficient building systems to spaces designed for social interaction, every aspect of the design reflects a commitment to creating an environment where residents can thrive while minimizing their ecological impact.

For those interested in exploring this project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs are available that provide deeper insights into the innovative approaches taken in this endeavor. Engaging with these elements reveals the careful consideration that has gone into crafting a community-oriented, sustainable living space, making the Eco-Village a notable example in contemporary architecture focused on ecological harmony and social connectivity.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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