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

Authors:
Laís Gomes, Sayuri Dantas, Paula Manzone
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber in a Sustainable Urban Setting

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the design creates a harmonious blend of modern aesthetics and sustainability, serving as a versatile urban living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize spatial efficiency and structural integrity.
02
Utilizes locally sourced charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for superior insulation and rapid construction.
04
Features a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainable water management.
05
Includes vertical gardens to improve air quality and contribute to urban biodiversity.

The project in question is an architectural design that emphasizes functionality while harmonizing with its surrounding environment. The design approach embodies a commitment to sustainability and innovative utilization of space, reflecting contemporary architectural practices. This project presents an integrated solution that caters to both aesthetic appreciation and practical needs.

The overall concept is rooted in creating a seamless connection between the built environment and nature, leading to the use of natural materials and open spaces that promote light, air circulation, and a sense of well-being among occupants. The layout is organized around key functional areas, including living, working, and recreational spaces, facilitating fluid movement and interactions among users.

The building's exterior showcases a façade that responds to local climatic conditions, employing materials that enhance performance while minimizing environmental impact. Regular patterns punctuate the surface, offering a visual rhythm that reflects a thoughtful consideration of scale and proportion. The use of glass is prominent, not only for its aesthetic value but also for its role in reducing energy consumption by maximizing natural light.

Unique Aspects of the Design

A defining characteristic of this architectural project is the integration of green roofs and vertical gardens, which contribute to biodiversity and promote environmental sustainability. These elements not only enhance the building’s aesthetics but also provide insulation, improving energy efficiency. The incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems and photovoltaic panels further underscores the commitment to eco-friendly practices and energy independence.

Another notable feature is the flexible spatial configuration that adapts to the diverse needs of its users. Modular design elements allow for easy reconfiguration of spaces, accommodating various functions over time without major modifications. This adaptability is particularly relevant in urban settings where space is at a premium, fostering a dynamic use of interiors that can evolve.

Materiality and Technical Details

The material palette for this project includes reinforced concrete, steel framing, and sustainably sourced timber, which collectively enhance the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the building. Each material was chosen for its durability and compatibility with the overall design ethos. The strategic use of insulation materials plays a crucial role in achieving thermal efficiency, aligning with modern standards for energy-efficient building practices.

The roof design features a slight pitch that facilitates rainwater drainage and integrates seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Large overhangs are employed to protect windows from direct sunlight, reducing cooling loads and enhancing user comfort. The landscape design complements the building’s architecture, using native plant species that require minimal maintenance and irrigation, contributing to the overall sustainability of the site.

In summary, this architectural project exemplifies a careful balance between aesthetic appeal, functional design, and environmental responsibility. Each element has been conceived with purpose, resulting in a coherent structure that meets contemporary challenges in urban living. To explore further technical details such as architectural plans, sections, and innovative design ideas, we encourage you to engage with the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its architectural significance.

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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
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