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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Sustainable, Elevated Accommodations in Natural Landscape

Authors:
Bruce Katsipidis, ELAHEH MOHAMED, MICHAEL TRUDGEON, KECEN GOU
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Define Sustainable, Elevated Accommodations in Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts and constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design integrates harmoniously with its natural surroundings to provide adaptable accommodations in the Vale de Moses.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes land disturbance and enhances drainage.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer superior thermal insulation and sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and fire resistance.
04
Adjustable operable shutters enable personalized ventilation and light control.
05
Integrated solar harvesting systems promote energy self-sufficiency.

The "Pod V" project is an architectural design initiative located in the Vale de Moses region, conceptualized as a modular accommodation solution that harmonizes with the natural landscape. This project emphasizes adaptable living spaces, innovative material usage, and sustainable design practices. The design serves as an exploration of how human habitation can coexist with ecological integrity.

The primary function of the Pod V is to provide flexible living accommodations that cater to various user needs while minimizing the environmental impact. The structure consists of prefabricated units that can be easily transported and installed on diverse terrains.

Innovative Structural Approaches

One of the distinguishing features of the Pod V project is the implementation of Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) as the primary building material. This choice promotes sustainability by utilizing renewable resources and offers significant advantages in terms of thermal insulation and structural efficiency. The use of CLT also allows for reduced construction waste, as panels are manufactured off-site and assembled on location.

The design incorporates galvanized steel framing to ensure structural integrity, particularly in areas subject to climatic stressors. Additionally, the elevated platform design minimizes land disturbance and supports effective water drainage, preserving the ecological balance of the site.

Adaptability and Functionality

The accommodation units are designed with functionality at the forefront. Each unit includes essential living areas, such as a bedroom, bathroom, and a versatile living space that can adapt to different uses. Large glazed openings provide ample natural light and enhance indoor-outdoor connectivity, allowing residents to engage with the surrounding landscape.

Another innovative aspect is the integration of adjustable exterior elements, such as operable shutters and sliding windows. These features provide occupants with the ability to control natural ventilation and light levels, translating to improved comfort and energy efficiency.

Sustainable Practices and Design Integration

The project prioritizes ecological sustainability through the use of recycled local timber for finishes and the installation of composite roofing panels designed to harvest solar energy. These elements enable the units to operate with minimal reliance on external energy sources, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental stewardship.

The design aesthetic reflects an emphasis on natural materials and colors, ensuring that the structures blend seamlessly with the hillside context. This approach not only maintains visual harmony with the landscape but also reduces the building's overall ecological footprint.

The Pod V project represents a thoughtful intersection of architecture and nature, demonstrating how design can facilitate sustainable living practices. For a more comprehensive look into the architectural plans, sections, and various design elements, interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further to gain deeper insights into this innovative architectural endeavor.

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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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