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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Dwelling Integrated with Nature

Author:
Adrian Simon Buck
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form a Sustainable Dwelling Integrated with Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the residence seamlessly integrates into its environment while providing functional living spaces designed for comfort and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve thermal insulation and structural integrity.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and reinforces space usability.
04
Includes passive solar strategies for climate control, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.
05
Designed with outdoor living spaces that seamlessly connect with the interior environment.

### Overview
Located within a contemporary residential neighborhood, the design emphasizes sustainable architecture through the use of renewable materials and efficient spatial organization. The project aims to foster a harmonious living environment that prioritizes both comfort and environmental responsibility. By integrating climate-responsive techniques and contemporary aesthetics, it addresses the functional needs of its occupants while enhancing the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Organization
The layout features distinct areas designated for both communal and private activities, strategically separating public and intimate spaces. Guest areas are positioned towards the street, establishing a formal presence, while private chambers open into a tranquil garden, ensuring privacy and serenity. The design incorporates dual entrances, enhancing the functional separation between guest and family access, which promotes a clear delineation of space and purpose throughout the residence.

### Material Selection
A thoughtful selection of materials underpins the project’s architectural integrity. Wood serves as a primary material, contributing warmth and a natural aesthetic. Clay is utilized for its effective thermal properties, assisting in indoor climate regulation. Large glass panels enhance the building’s connectivity to the outdoors by facilitating natural light while also providing shaded areas for comfort. This combination not only elevates the overall atmosphere but also supports the building’s energy efficiency goals through passive solar design principles.

### Design Focus
Key design elements include significant structural massing that aids in natural climate control, allowing for effortless thermal retention. Innovative features such as a double-height living and dining area enhance spatial dynamics, and the integration of skylights throughout the first-floor bedrooms augment natural illumination while fostering a connection to the exterior environment. Outdoor amenities, including a covered terrace and swimming pool, further enrich the living space, reinforcing the relationship between the indoor and outdoor realms.

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

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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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