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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Valerio Piccolo, Andrea Piccolo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Community Retreat
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the retreat integrates seamlessly into its rural landscape while offering flexible spaces for meditation, wellness, and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and rapid assembly.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Includes an artificial lake to promote biodiversity and serve as a recreational element.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that adapt for wellness activities and community gatherings.

## Project Overview
The project entails the adaptive restoration of an existing barn structure located in a rural area characterized by rich biodiversity and diverse topography. The primary intent is to preserve the barn's historical features while integrating modern functionalities that enhance usability. The design approach aims to honor the historical significance of the site, influenced by the aesthetics of Italian gardens, particularly reminiscent of the Garden of Ninfa.

## Spatial Strategy
The site layout is meticulously developed to blend natural elements with constructed spaces, creating distinct zones for various activities. Private zones are designated for individual reflection, marked by boundaries that ensure tranquility. Areas for meditation and yoga are incorporated to promote wellness and mindfulness, encouraging users to engage with the surrounding landscape. Furthermore, the inclusion of nature trails and a children's playground facilitates recreational activities and ecological interaction. A fruit garden is also integrated, emphasizing principles of sustainability and self-sufficiency, while an artificial lake enhances aesthetic appeal and supports local wildlife habitats.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The project utilizes a carefully selected palette of materials that reflect both aesthetic qualities and sustainability. Stone is employed for structural integrity and to maintain the barn's historical character, while wood is utilized for structural elements and creating inviting interiors. Glass is incorporated to maximize natural light and reduce energy consumption. The inclusion of solar panels underscores the commitment to renewable energy, while concrete provides structural stability for utility spaces. This strategic material selection not only supports the restoration efforts but also reinforces energy efficiency throughout the facility.

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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.

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

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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