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Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Communal Shelters

Authors:
Michael Degirolamo, Danna Lei
Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Communal Shelters

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design promotes sustainability and adaptability in communal living spaces that resonate with local architectural heritage.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability benefits.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize internal space and natural light.
04
Includes green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve thermal performance.
05
Arranged to foster communal interactions while maintaining privacy among residents.

The SUB/LAND_HUT project is an architectural initiative that reflects a commitment to sustainability and cultural relevance in design. Situated in Latvia, this project draws on local historical architectural forms, particularly those of traditional huts. The design approach merges modern materials with time-honored construction techniques to create functional living spaces that emphasize community and environmental harmony.

The project comprises multiple huts arranged strategically to foster interaction while maintaining a degree of privacy for residents. Each hut serves diverse purposes, from individual accommodation to communal areas, enabling adaptation to various social dynamics. The layout of the huts, combined with pathways connecting them, underscores the importance of social engagement within the residential complex.

Sustainable Material Utilization and Design Principles

A defining characteristic of the SUB/LAND_HUT is its focus on sustainable materials. The architectural design utilizes cross-laminated timber for structural components, which provides strength and offers a warm aesthetic. Large glass windows enhance natural lighting and promote a connection between indoor and outdoor environments. The inclusion of bamboo adds a lightweight yet resilient material option, further contributing to the ecological footprint of the project. Insulation made from cellulose ensures energy efficiency, aligning with modern standards of environmentally responsible architecture.

This project distinguishes itself with its green roofs integrated into each hut, promoting biodiversity and supporting local ecosystems. The design plan prioritizes low-impact living through thoughtful landscaping that incorporates local planting mediums and soil. This aspect not only aids in water management but also enhances the visual appeal of the site.

Flexible Space Utilization and Community Integration

The SUB/LAND_HUT’s design emphasizes flexibility, allowing space to adapt to resident needs. Multi-functional rooms can be easily reconfigured for different uses, from private retreats to gathering spaces for the community. This adaptability facilitates a sense of shared ownership and communal responsibility, encouraging a supportive living environment.

The architectural form reflects a contemporary interpretation of traditional Latvian huts, creating a dialogue between history and modernity. This integration facilitates cultural continuity while addressing the needs of contemporary living. The thoughtful arrangement of the huts and shared spaces fosters social interactions, reinforcing community bonds among residents.

For further insights into this project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, explore the full presentation of the SUB/LAND_HUT. The details provided will offer a comprehensive understanding of the innovative design ideas and the thoughtful considerations that underpin this architectural endeavor.

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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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