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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Tranquil Retreat with Outdoor Integration

Author:
Nina Kuka
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Tranquil Retreat with Outdoor Integration

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates thoughtfully with its natural surroundings to create a serene wellness retreat that promotes relaxation and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for increased durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural efficiency and reduce weight.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while minimizing exterior footprint.
04
Incorporates extensive glazing to foster ample natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Designed with dedicated meditation spaces to promote mental well-being and tranquility.

### Project Overview
Located in a tranquil Alpine setting, the design emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. The intent is to create a multifunctional retreat that addresses diverse user needs, ranging from relaxation to therapeutic activities, while prioritizing comfort and natural elements. The architectural approach integrates indoor and outdoor environments to foster a peaceful atmosphere appropriate for modern living.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The project employs a deliberate selection of materials, prominently featuring wood for its warmth and natural aesthetics, which enhances the inviting character of the spaces. Large glass panels are incorporated to maximize natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and strengthening the connection to the outdoor setting. Concrete elements provide structural durability, counterbalancing the softness of wood.

Sustainability is a core consideration, as the orientation of the building is strategically chosen to optimize daylight and minimize energy loss. The incorporation of local materials further supports sustainable practices by reducing transportation impact. The interior layout promotes energy efficiency, with carefully positioned windows and overhangs that facilitate passive solar heating.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The interior of the building is thoughtfully organized into communal and private areas to encourage relaxation and social interaction. Outdoor spaces, including terraces and gardens, are integrated to enhance the living experience and facilitate a seamless transition between indoors and nature. Dedicated meditation and relaxation zones, highlighted by calming water features and abundant greenery, underscore a commitment to mental well-being.

Accessibility is also a focal point, as design elements such as gentle ramps and wide hallways ensure that the environment is inclusive for all users. Multifunctional spaces, including therapy and multi-purpose rooms, are incorporated to address various needs while fostering a sense of community among inhabitants.

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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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