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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Sustainable Family Retreat

Author:
Guy Labrecque, jr
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create a Sustainable Family Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the architecture establishes a seamless connection with nature while serving as a functional family retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced durability and a distinct aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels allow for rapid assembly and structural integrity.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while optimizing natural light.
04
Integrated earth tubes naturally regulate temperature throughout the building.
05
Extensive landscaping incorporates native plant species to support local biodiversity.

### Overview

Located in an unspecified geographical context, the design of Grove de le Verde emphasizes sustainability and integration with its natural surroundings. The architectural approach focuses on optimizing natural light and ventilation while respecting the local climatic conditions. Traditional elements, such as pitched roofs and brickwork, are harmoniously incorporated into the modern aesthetic, fostering a dialogue between contemporary architecture and local identity.

### Spatial Organization

The layout features a central gathering area surrounded by various functional spaces, including guest bedrooms, a living room, and a tasting mezzanine. This configuration encourages interaction among users while maintaining necessary privacy. Key design elements include:

- **Site Plan Overview**: The main structure features extensive glass windows, maximizing natural light and providing views of the landscape. An exterior lounge, dedicated gastronomic storage, and landscaped gardens create strong indoor-outdoor linkages.
- **Vertical Connectivity**: A two-level design includes a staircase that connects the main level to the mezzanine, enhancing spatial dynamics.
- **Multi-Purpose Spaces**: The interior accommodates activities such as tasting, gardening, and leisure, underscoring the versatility of the design.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Features

Materiality is central to both function and aesthetics, employing:

- **Bricks**: Utilized for tall chimneys, these ensure durability and thermal performance while integrating local craftsmanship.
- **Glass**: Extensively used in windows and partitions, promoting natural lighting and creating visual openness.
- **Concrete**: Provides structural support and durability, contrasting with softer materials like wood, which adds warmth to the interior.

Sustainability strategies are embedded throughout the design:

- **Passive Cooling Systems** utilize natural ventilation via strategically placed openings.
- **Earth Tubes** facilitate energy efficiency by leveraging the earth's cooler temperatures.
- **Solar Panels** on the roof contribute to the building's energy needs, emphasizing the use of renewable energy.
- **Native Landscaping** enhances biodiversity, aids in water management, and creates an inviting outdoor environment.

These design choices collectively reflect a commitment to sustainable practices while ensuring a functional and aesthetically pleasing environment.

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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

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
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