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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Sustainable Urban Living Solution

Authors:
Christopher George Jones, Robert Charles Keen, Alistair Dominic A Pask
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define A Sustainable Urban Living Solution

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates an efficient micro-living environment that addresses urban housing needs while promoting sustainability and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and fire resistance while contributing to aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce carbon footprint and enable rapid construction.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior height and natural light distribution.
04
The micro-living space includes integrated water conservation systems for efficient resource management.
05
Community spaces are embedded within the project to encourage social interaction among residents.

## Overview

Located in London at the former Highgate Overground Station on Archway Road, the Microhome project offers a compact living solution tailored to address current urban housing challenges. Designed for adaptability and efficiency, this initiative aims to balance ecological responsibility with the well-being of its occupants, making it a prototype for future sustainable housing developments.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The interior layout is meticulously planned to maximize space while providing a functional environment for up to two residents. The design includes a combined kitchen and living area that prioritizes minimal energy consumption and incorporates multi-functional furniture, facilitating efficient use of space. Ample storage solutions beneath raised floors capitalize on vertical space, enhancing overall livability. The design also features a fully accessible entrance with a gentle ramp to accommodate individuals with mobility challenges.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The Microhome employs a range of sustainable materials, reinforcing its commitment to energy efficiency. Key materials include cross-laminated timber (CLT) for structural integrity, nephelem insulation for thermal performance, and low-E glazing to reduce heat loss. Additionally, fire-resistant magnesium oxide (MgO) boards enhance durability. The integration of renewable energy sources such as solar panels and a small wind turbine, along with heat recovery ventilation systems, ensures energy independence and promotes a reduced ecological footprint. Collectively, these elements aim to foster a sustainable living environment while effectively addressing community housing needs.

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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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