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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Sustainable Coastal Living Spaces

Authors:
Paulina Katarzyna Jesionowska, Dawid Grabski
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form Sustainable Coastal Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Using charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a harmonious integration of sustainable materials and coastal aesthetics to provide functional residential spaces for the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for weather resistance and a unique visual texture.
03
Incorporates green roofs to promote local biodiversity and effective rainwater management.
04
Features modular units that allow for flexible living spaces adaptable to various family sizes.
05
Maximizes natural light through extensive use of large glass panels, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.

## Overview
Located on the Hel Peninsula, the project integrates into a region characterized by its diverse natural coastal environments and active community life. The design seeks to harmonize with the landscape while providing functional spaces for both residents and visitors. The intent is to foster a sense of community engagement and leisure, all within the ecological context of the area.

### Architectural Composition
The project features a series of structures strategically arranged to optimize visual and physical connections with the surrounding natural landscape. At its center, a primary building anchors the development, with smaller units radiating outward to enhance communal interactions. Distinctive use of materials plays a crucial role in achieving both aesthetic appeal and environmental sustainability. Cross-laminated timber offers structural support while reducing carbon emissions, while natural stone provides a tactile façade that resonates with the local geology. Large glass panels ensure ample natural light and unobstructed views of the bay.

### Sustainability Initiatives
Various sustainability strategies are embedded within the design. Green roofs are incorporated to support biodiversity and manage stormwater effectively. The layout promotes natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on mechanical cooling systems. Additionally, solar panels are integrated to supply energy to common areas, contributing to lower overall energy consumption. The building envelope is enhanced with high-performance thermal insulation, achieving a U-value below 0.14, ensuring energy efficiency throughout the year.

Key features include private living spaces that are clearly delineated from public recreational areas, complemented by balconies and terraces that extend residential units into the natural environment. The modular design accommodates diverse family sizes and lifestyles, providing flexibility to adapt to changing needs. Shared amenities such as gardens and swimming pools promote interaction among residents, supporting a vibrant community dynamic throughout all seasons.

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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

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