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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Compact Living Solution

Author:
Adrian Simon Buck
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Compact Living Solution

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this compact residence exemplifies resource efficiency and sustainable living through its innovative use of materials and design, creating a functional space for modern lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and natural light.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Includes integrated photovoltaic panels for on-site energy generation.

## Project Overview
The TinyEcoLiving project is situated within an urban context, addressing current housing challenges through sustainable design. The intent is to create compact living spaces that are environmentally conscious while also being innovative and modern. By utilizing eco-friendly materials and advanced technologies, the project serves as a model for efficient, minimal living solutions.

### Spatial Strategy
The design features a monolithic block form that balances openness and solidity, fostering connections between indoor and outdoor spaces. An open-plan interior promotes easy movement throughout the living area, dining space, and kitchen, optimizing usability within a compact environment. Extensive glazing allows natural light to permeate the interior, while ensuring a close relationship with the outdoors and enhancing the livability of the space.

### Material Considerations and Sustainability
The selection of materials is central to achieving both functional and aesthetic objectives. Structural components include glued laminated timber and reinforced concrete, which provide durability. The use of natural thermal and acoustic insulation enhances energy efficiency, while rainwater harvesting systems and photovoltaic panels contribute to reduced ecological footprints. The design incorporates multi-functional furniture and innovative storage solutions, maximizing the functionality of the limited footprint. Each element promotes a holistic approach to sustainability, emphasizing energy efficiency and resource conservation throughout the living experience.

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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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