Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Modern Hillside Residence

Author:
Sameep Padora
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define a Modern Hillside Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the residence seamlessly integrates with its hillside location while providing functional and open living spaces for its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer both structural integrity and sustainable sourcing.
03
A bent A-frame design creates dynamic interior spaces and optimizes natural light.
04
Extensive outdoor terraces extend living areas into the surrounding landscape.
05
Integrated landscaping uses native plants to minimize maintenance and support local ecology.

**Project Overview**
Located in a picturesque hillside environment, the residential structure emphasizes a contemporary design that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The integration of sustainable practices reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility while promoting a connection between built space and landscape. The design aligns with modern architectural trends characterized by open layouts and an emphasis on natural light.

**Spatial Strategy**
The architectural plan prioritizes fluidity and connectivity between indoor and outdoor spaces, fostering a strong relationship with the environment. Features such as open floor plans and large floor-to-ceiling windows invite ample light and views of the landscape, enhancing the spatial experience. Common areas are designed to flow seamlessly into outdoor living spaces, such as terraces and patios, encouraging social interaction and use throughout various seasons.

**Materiality and Technical Features**
The selection of materials is integral to the character of the structure. Sustainably sourced wood is utilized for cladding and flooring, adding warmth and texture. Concrete serves as a primary structural element, showcasing durability and aesthetic appeal, while large glass elements utilize energy-efficient, triple-glazed specifications for improved thermal performance. The use of structural steel allows for expansive, column-free interiors, enhancing the sense of openness. Additional features may include green roofing solutions to support insulation and biodiversity, as well as innovative technologies designed for energy management and enhanced user comfort.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy