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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Compact Urban Retreat

Authors:
Lucile Moulin, Antoine De besombes singla
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Compact Urban Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this compact urban retreat seamlessly integrates sustainable design with wellness-focused spaces to support the demanding lifestyle of healthcare workers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that optimize structural integrity while reducing weight.
03
Includes a unique bent A-frame design to promote natural ventilation and light distribution.
04
Integrates an indoor garden that fosters mental wellness and encourages sustainable living practices.
05
Utilizes a rainwater harvesting system to support water efficiency and resource management.
The Healthy Microhome is an architectural design project that emerges in response to evolving urban conditions, specifically tailored to meet the needs of healthcare workers during challenging times. This project embodies a commitment to enhancing well-being through well-thought-out design, functionality, and sustainable living. It serves as a compact, efficient habitat that provides a restful sanctuary, addressing the spatial constraints often encountered in high-density environments.

The primary function of the Healthy Microhome is to offer a livable space for individuals transitioning between demanding professional environments and the comfort of home life. It provides a retreat equipped with essential amenities designed for both relaxation and productivity. The layout effectively balances private and communal areas, promoting a versatile living experience that can adapt to the occupant's routine while emphasizing their health and comfort.

One of the standout features of the Healthy Microhome is its clever spatial organization. Covering an area of 25 square meters, the design evidences a thoughtful arrangement of key living areas. The entrance vestibule establishes a warm and welcoming transition. Following this, the living room serves as a multi-purpose zone, designed not only for leisure but also for social interaction and informal gatherings. This space is particularly significant as it enhances communal living within a compact setting.

The kitchen element of the microhome is efficiently designed, incorporating modern appliances and thoughtful storage solutions. It is not merely functional; it promotes a lifestyle that values home-cooked meals, supplemented by an adjacent vegetable garden that encourages users to grow their own ingredients. This integration of culinary and horticultural practices reflects a design philosophy that prioritizes sustainability.

Private areas, including bedrooms and bathrooms, are designed to promote serenity and restfulness, crafted with considerations for sound insulation. The choice of materials throughout the microhome plays a pivotal role in achieving its intended atmosphere. The predominant use of wood in the structure provides warmth and resilience, while also contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal. Plywood panels are utilized for the interior, allowing for simplicity in construction and finish that retains a natural look.

A particularly innovative approach in the Healthy Microhome is the incorporation of a green roof. Beyond its functionality in terms of insulation, the green roof serves as an aesthetic haven, enhancing the overall livability of the space and contributing to biodiversity. Additionally, the use of integrated solar panels demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency, empowering the microhome to harness renewable energy while decreasing dependency on external resources.

The design also cleverly addresses water usage through specialized rainwater harvesting systems, ensuring efficient management of vital resources. This attention to sustainable practices is not merely a trend but a necessity in contemporary architectural design, underscoring the microhome's role in responsible environmental stewardship.

Another aspect of the project worth noting is its adaptability. The modular design allows occupants to personalize their living spaces according to individual needs and preferences. This flexibility is crucial in promoting a sense of ownership and comfort, particularly for those who may often feel the pressures of their demanding professions.

The Healthy Microhome is more than just a structure; it is a thoughtful solution that encapsulates the essence of health-oriented design amid the complexities of modern urban living. The balance of functionality, sustainable practices, and aesthetics showcases an architecture that looks beyond basic housing—aiming to create environments that contribute positively to the occupant's quality of life.

For those interested in exploring this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide an in-depth understanding of the unique ideas and strategies employed in the Healthy Microhome. This project stands as a significant example of how architecture can serve specific needs while fostering a sense of community and well-being.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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