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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Coastal Community Retreat

Authors:
Javier Morras-de-la-Torre, Miguel Gamero-Oliver
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Coastal Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a structure built with cross-laminated timber, creating a harmonious retreat that seamlessly integrates with its coastal forest surroundings while serving as a gathering space for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability while blending with the natural surroundings.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to efficient construction and structural integrity.
03
The design features a bent A-frame that optimizes spatial dynamics and aesthetic appeal.
04
Large overhangs create sheltered outdoor areas that encourage year-round use.
05
Open-plan interior spaces facilitate flexibility for various community activities.

### Overview
The TRIO project is located along the coastline of Latvia, where it responds thoughtfully to the natural environment. The intent behind the design is to foster human interaction within a communal space that embraces the beauty of the coastal landscape while ensuring ecological sensitivity. This report analyzes the architectural elements, material choices, and design outcomes that contribute to the project's distinctive character.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout is designed to enhance views and facilitate engagement with the surrounding wildlife, reflecting a commitment to environmental awareness. This strategy promotes a spectrum of experiences, catering to both social interactions and solitary reflection. The roof geometry draws inspiration from local vernacular architecture, merging traditional forms with contemporary design principles to create adaptable spaces that are suitable for year-round use.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Material selection plays a crucial role in achieving both aesthetic appeal and functional performance. The project predominantly employs:

- **Wood**: Used for structural elements to provide natural warmth and effective thermal insulation against the coastal climate.
- **Glass**: Incorporated into windows and wall sections to maximize natural light and offer unobstructed views of the landscape.
- **Metal**: Utilized for roofing and structural reinforcement, balancing durability with modern detailing.
- **Concrete**: Serves as a foundational element, ensuring stability and resilience in response to environmental challenges.
- **Natural Finishes**: Materials such as clay or stone are introduced to enrich textural diversity and align with the local landscape.

Overall, these choices reflect a sustainable approach that minimizes ecological impact while enhancing the project's connection to its natural context.

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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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