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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define An Energy-Efficient Residence

Author:
Nardin Omar Ragheb Abu Abushamleh
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define An Energy-Efficient Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this residence exemplifies energy efficiency while seamlessly integrating modern living with sustainable materials.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a distinctive bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and functionality.
04
Strategically oriented to leverage passive solar heating and natural ventilation.
05
Utilizes modular construction techniques to allow for future expansions without significant alterations.

## Overview
Located in a modern residential area, the project is designed to meet the evolving demands of contemporary living by focusing on energy efficiency and sustainability. The intent is to create a residential space that is both functional and adaptable, accommodating various lifestyle needs while harmonizing with the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The design features a deliberate layout that distinguishes between public and private areas, enhancing comfort and privacy for residents. The ground floor includes an expansive open-plan living room, dining area, and service kitchen, facilitating social interaction and operational efficiency. On the first floor, private bedrooms are strategically positioned away from communal spaces, promoting tranquility. Bathrooms are situated on the southern side of the house to optimize warmth during usage.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices are a central aspect of the design, reflecting contemporary sustainable practices. Concrete is utilized for its durability and structural integrity, while large glass windows enhance passive solar design, maximizing natural light and energy efficiency. Wooden elements, incorporated in features such as trellises and railings, provide aesthetic appeal and serve functional shading purposes. The overall material palette underscores a commitment to sustainability while ensuring the long-term viability of the structure.

In addition to these efforts, the project emphasizes energy conservation through thoughtful orientation and the use of cross-ventilation techniques, which leverage natural airflow to minimize reliance on mechanical cooling systems. The architectural expression across various elevations demonstrates a purposeful interplay of solid and perforated surfaces that respond to climatic conditions, further reinforcing the project's sustainable design ethos.

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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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