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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Author:
Geoffrey Van troost
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this residence harmonizes sustainable materials with an open design to foster community engagement and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a bent A-frame design for enhanced structural stability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote water conservation.
03
Utilizes locally sourced stone for the foundation, ensuring environmental integration.
04
Features operable sunshades for adjustable natural light control throughout seasons.
05
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and thermal performance.

## Overview

The Olive House is situated in a region that values both environmental sustainability and cultural heritage. The design integrates advanced architectural techniques with traditional principles to create a space that promotes sustainable living whilst honoring its geographical and cultural context. Focused on thermal comfort, natural ventilation, and energy efficiency, the structure embodies contemporary architectural goals aligned with ecological awareness.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout of the Olive House is strategically designed to optimize solar exposure and facilitate airflow. Orientation is carefully planned to maximize solar gain in winter, with spaces organized around natural light and ventilation. This promotes flexibility for various activities, providing distinct areas for gathering, leisure, and solitude. The inclusion of screened porches enhances outdoor living by allowing passive cooling and fostering connections with the surrounding landscape.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The material palette of the Olive House reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic coherence. Key materials include wood, which serves as both a structural and decorative element, promoting a connection to nature. High-performance double-pane glass is utilized to enhance thermal insulation while maximizing natural light. Local stone is employed for structural elements, ensuring durability and contextual relevance. Insulated panels are incorporated to improve thermal performance, contributing to reduced energy consumption year-round. Additional sustainable features include operable sunshades for effective sunlight management and a rainwater harvesting system for irrigation and domestic use.

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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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