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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Community-Centric Residence

Authors:
Kimberley Nichols, Caitlyn Tino
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Community-Centric Residence

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this residential complex integrates sustainable materials with biophilic design to foster community connections and support well-being.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while enhancing thermal insulation.
02
Charred wooden shingles offer fire resistance and a distinct aesthetic contrast.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes space efficiency and encourages natural ventilation.
04
Integrated gardens promote biodiversity and community interaction within living spaces.
05
Large glass windows facilitate unobstructed views and connect indoor environments with nature.

### Project Overview

Eden Verde is situated in a tranquil environment that emphasizes community interaction and a connection to nature. The intent of the design is to enhance the well-being of its occupants through thoughtful integration of green spaces and the provision of both communal and private areas. The architectural concept centers around fostering connection among residents and their environment, organized around two primary volumes that facilitate both social engagement and personal reflection.

### Spatial Configuration

The spatial layout of Eden Verde is meticulously designed to promote interaction while ensuring privacy. Residential units are strategically arranged to cater to diverse living arrangements and encourage community engagement. Shared spaces are integrated throughout the development, including community rooms and outdoor pathways that connect various areas. This intentional circulation fosters a sense of belonging while allowing residents to find solitude in private gardens at the rear of the units. The use of large glass windows throughout the design not only enhances natural light but also strengthens the visual connection to the surrounding landscape.

### Material Selection

The project employs a range of materials that align with its architectural vision and sustainability goals. Concrete forms the foundational and structural components, providing durability, while sustainably sourced timber is used for facades and decking to create a warm aesthetic conducive to nature. Glass is used extensively to optimize natural light and views, contributing to an open and airy atmosphere. Additionally, the landscaping incorporates local flora and specially designed soil blends to support the ecological integrity of green roofs, further enhancing biodiversity and integrating the built environment with its natural context.

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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

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