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Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Form A Sustainable Haven Amidst Nature

Authors:
Eszter bernadett Barna, Balázs Markó, Balázs Kósa
Charred Wooden Shingles And Cross-Laminated Timber Form A Sustainable Haven Amidst Nature

Project in-detail

With its distinctive charred wooden shingles and structural elegance of cross-laminated timber, the design harmonizes with the landscape to create a self-sustaining residence that redefines modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof features an innovative bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability while maximizing interior space.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and improved durability against environmental elements.
03
Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels allows for rapid construction while maintaining energy-efficient insulation.
04
The project raises the building on pilings to preserve surrounding habitats and manage water flow sustainably.
05
Natural light is optimized through expansive glass panels, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor environments.
The project under analysis focuses on a carefully conceived architectural design known as "Painter's Barn." This structure represents a seamless blend of contemporary architecture with a deep respect for the surrounding environment and local culture. Functionally, it serves as a self-sustaining residence that highlights modern living while embracing sustainability principles. The design incorporates elements that foster a strong connection to nature, encouraging an indoor-outdoor lifestyle that is increasingly relevant in today's architectural discourse.

At its core, the design of Painter's Barn reflects thoughtful planning and an understanding of the locale's architectural vernacular. The use of cross-laminated timber establishes structural integrity while providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional materials. It showcases the project’s dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The choice of modified wood for the roof demonstrates a commitment to durability, ensuring that aesthetics are not compromised for functionality. Additionally, the inclusion of traditional stone walls adds a textural depth that allows the contemporary structure to resonate with historical contexts.

The expansive use of glass serves multiple purposes: it invites natural light into the interior spaces, creating bright and airy environments, while also maintaining strong visual connections to the beautiful surrounding landscape. This transparency not only enhances the interior ambiance but also promotes an operating design where the owners can enjoy the shifting views of nature through the varying seasons.

Unique design approaches are evident in the elevation of the structure through pilings, which not only preserve existing habitats but also thoughtfully manage water flow around the site. This approach exemplifies a holistic design philosophy, addressing ecological concerns while allowing the building to coexist with its natural surroundings. The geometry of the building, characterized by angular roofs and a varying profile, draws influence from traditional agricultural structures yet remains firmly rooted in modern architectural language.

The layout of the project has been meticulously crafted to encourage interaction and communal engagement. Interior spaces are thoughtfully organized to balance private retreats and communal areas, allowing for flexibility in use and accommodating both family gatherings and individual moments of solitude. These spaces are designed with an awareness of how people interact with each other and their environment, fostering a sense of community within the architecture.

This project is also a significant demonstration of regional architectural ideas, showcasing how local materials can be utilized to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functional performance of a structure. By utilizing reeds and other local resources, Painter's Barn embodies the principles of sustainable design, integrating deeply with the landscape as well as the cultural narratives of the area.

For those interested in architectural plans, sections, and overall designs that inform this project, exploring the project's detailed presentations will reveal a wealth of insights into its conception and development. The thoughtful blend of function, materiality, and community-focused design strategies within Painter's Barn provides a compelling reference for contemporary architecture that respects both environment and heritage. Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into these architectural elements to fully appreciate the innovative approaches employed in this thoughtful project.
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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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