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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Sustainable Living Within Forested Surroundings

Author:
Sarah Langille
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Create Sustainable Living Within Forested Surroundings

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design emphasizes sustainability and sensory engagement within a compact living space situated in a temperate forest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and energy efficiency.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Includes integrated storage solutions within staircases to maintain open living space.
05
Designed to seamlessly blend into the surrounding temperate forest landscape, promoting environmental harmony.
The "Autumnal Hills" project is a thoughtfully designed architectural dwelling aimed at enhancing the living experience for young couples in the temperate forests of the eastern United States. Focusing on sustainability, this tiny home design prioritizes functionality while ensuring a strong connection with the surrounding natural environment. It showcases a modern approach to architecture that respects ecological values and promotes a lifestyle intimately tied to nature.

The architectural design consists of a two-story structure with a carefully planned layout. The ground floor integrates essential living spaces, including a kitchen, a flexible living room, and a bathroom, while the upper floor houses a private bedroom and outdoor deck areas. These decks facilitate seamless interaction with the landscape, reinforcing the design’s commitment to blending interior and exterior environments.

The material selection in "Autumnal Hills" reflects a strategic emphasis on sustainability and cohesion with the natural surroundings. Local wood, light-colored bricks, glass, and metal fixtures are the primary materials, each contributing to the home’s overall aesthetic and thermal efficiency. Expansive windows serve to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views, enhancing the occupants' visual and physical connection to the outdoors.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the defining features of the "Autumnal Hills" project is its modular design, which incorporates built-in furniture solutions that maximize space utility while maintaining a clutter-free environment. The staircase cleverly doubles as storage, illustrating an innovative approach to both space-saving and functionality. This thoughtful integration addresses common challenges faced in tiny home living, allowing for flexibility without sacrificing comfort.

In addition, the project's attention to artistic expression within the living space is notable. By enabling customization through personal art and design elements, the architecture fosters an environment that resonates with the inhabitants’ identities. This versatility in design encourages a balance between work and leisure, making the space conducive for creative pursuits as well as everyday living.

Functional Spaces and Environmental Integration

"Autumnal Hills" also encompasses dedicated areas that blend practical needs with leisure activities. The combination of cooking, socializing, and relaxation spaces reflects a holistic view of modern living, emphasizing a lifestyle that embraces both productivity and enjoyment of the environment. The location in a temperate forest further enhances the project’s goal of sustainability, encouraging residents to engage with outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking.

The design outcome aligns seamlessly with the overarching goals of providing a comfortable, efficient, and ecologically-aware living space. By focusing on sustainability and integrating personal and creative elements within a compact footprint, "Autumnal Hills" serves as a model for future architectural endeavors aimed at modern, nature-centric living.

To explore the intricate details of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and design innovations, consider reviewing the comprehensive project presentation. The architectural ideas embedded in this design provide valuable insights into the evolving relationship between space and the environment.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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