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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Elevated Community Living

Authors:
Paola Di bonito, Marianna Amendola, Davide Apicella, Gaetano Chirichella
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Elevated Community Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design offers elevated living spaces that harmonize with the natural landscape while fostering community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that minimizes environmental impact while maximizing views.
04
Offers elevated living spaces to foster community interaction and connection with nature.
05
Employs extensive glazing for passive solar heating and natural light throughout the interiors.
The architectural project under examination is an innovative design situated in a mountainous terrain characterized by its unique hexagonal form. This project integrates seamlessly with its natural surroundings, creating a space that promotes both functionality and community engagement. The buildings are thoughtfully organized into distinct living and sleeping areas, with the central block serving as a communal hub. The structure's design encourages connection to the outdoors, fostering interaction among occupants and with the environment.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of this project, with the use of renewable materials such as wood, glass, and metal. Large glass windows facilitate natural light penetration while minimizing energy consumption. The incorporation of a photovoltaic system highlights the commitment to reducing the ecological footprint, offering a practical solution to energy needs without compromising the architectural integrity. This focus on environmentally responsive design emphasizes a modern approach to living that respects traditional architectural forms.

Unique Design Elements

The architectural design features several elements that distinguish it from typical residential projects. The hexagonal layout not only maximizes interior spaces but also enhances natural ventilation and light, ensuring a comfortable living environment throughout the seasons. The elevated sleeping areas provide privacy while offering unique views of the surrounding landscape. This arrangement promotes a strong indoor-outdoor relationship, where expansive openings invite the forest into the home.

The project’s consideration for community is evident in its open floor plans and communal areas, facilitating social interactions among residents. The thoughtful placement of structures minimizes visual impact, allowing the development to coexist with its natural setting without overpowering it. This approach reflects a commitment to enhancing the overall aesthetic experience, prioritizing harmony over sheer presence.

Integration with Natural Environment

This design is characterized by a deliberate integration with its environment. Structures rise from the ground, echoing the natural landscape while providing elevated perspectives for occupants. The architectural language respects the mountainous terrain and promotes an immersive experience, where residents can engage with the surrounding flora and fauna.

The use of sustainable materials further enhances this connection, as they are sourced responsibly and contribute to a reduced carbon footprint. The overall design approach highlights a commitment to creating an ecological balance, promoting a lifestyle that is both modern and respectful of natural resources.

The detailed examination of architectural plans, sections, and designs reveals further insights into the project's thoughtful considerations and unique solutions. To explore this project in more depth and discover its architectural ideas, interested readers are encouraged to review the architectural presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its design and functional attributes.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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