Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Seasonal Dwelling for Transhumance

Author:
Roxana-artemisia Dan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Seasonal Dwelling for Transhumance

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design facilitates a sustainable seasonal dwelling that supports traditional transhumance practices in the Apuseni Mountains.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, reducing construction waste and enhancing energy efficiency.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes interior space while providing natural ventilation.
04
Designed to support seasonal transhumance, facilitating traditional livestock migration activities.
05
Integrates rainwater collection systems to promote sustainable water management practices.

## Overview
The Pastoral Microhome is situated in the Apuseni Mountains of Romania, offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional pastoral architecture tailored to meet the needs of seasonal transhumance. This design integrates modern living standards while honoring the cultural significance of the transhumance practice—a seasonal migration of livestock and communities that shapes local identity. The dwelling is crafted to provide shelter and promote community engagement during pastoral seasons, reflecting both historical context and contemporary relevance.

### Volumetric and Material Strategy
The architectural design evolves through a series of volumetric explorations that begin with traditional archetypal forms. The final layout synthesizes historical and contemporary elements, delivering an aesthetically pleasing structure that addresses functional requirements for modern habitation. Materials selected for construction emphasize local craftsmanship and ecological considerations. Locally sourced wooden structural panels create a lightweight and resilient framework, while a gabled roof enhances thermal comfort and natural drainage. The incorporation of stone or wooden shingles maintains historical aesthetics, complemented by glass facades that invite natural light and connect the interior with the surrounding landscape.

### Interior Layout and Sustainability
The interior arrangement prioritizes functionality while retaining traditional character. Key features include a communal living area with integrated kitchen space, compact sleeping quarters for transient living, and modern bathroom facilities designed to incorporate ecological practices such as composting toilets. Sustainability is central to the Microhome's design, incorporating rainwater collection systems, photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation, and natural heating solutions like wood-burning stoves that utilize local biomass. These elements collectively foster a low-impact lifestyle, reinforcing the project's commitment to ecological responsibility.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy