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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Summer Residences in Romania

Authors:
Dragos - andrei Beldiman, Sonia - elena Dumitrescu, Ana - corina Enciu, David Orbocea
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Summer Residences in Romania

Project in-detail

Set against the natural backdrop of Tuzla, Romania, summer residences showcase charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels to create a harmonious blend of sustainability and modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability while promoting energy efficiency.
03
Each residence is designed with a bent A-frame, optimizing space and aesthetic appeal.
04
The layout encourages natural ventilation and maximizes sunlight exposure throughout the day.
05
Local materials are prioritized to reduce environmental impact and support the regional economy.
The architectural project located near Tuzla, Romania, is a thoughtfully designed initiative that seeks to integrate sustainable tourism with a revitalization of the local community. With the aim of creating a series of six houses primarily for summer use, this project reflects a commitment to environmental stewardship while offering comfortable living spaces for visitors. The design emphasizes a seamless connection between the built environment and the natural landscape, promoting ecological awareness and responsible tourism.

At its core, the project represents not just individual dwellings but a cohesive community that invites engagement with both the landscape and each other. The spatial organization is purposeful, featuring a modular layout that balances privacy with social interaction. Each house is designed to function as a versatile space equipped with essential amenities, including open living areas that facilitate communal gatherings, intimate bedrooms for relaxation, and efficient bathrooms that cater to modern needs. The inclusion of outdoor spaces such as terraces and balconies extends the livable area, encouraging occupants to immerse themselves in the surrounding environment.

The architectural design employs a variety of local materials, with wood taking center stage as the primary building element. This choice enhances not only the aesthetic appeal but also the functionality, providing structural support while evoking warmth and comfort. The use of ventilated layers ensures thermal insulation, contributing to energy efficiency and minimizing the overall environmental footprint of the project. The incorporation of prefabricated panels made from locally sourced materials streamlines the construction process, reducing waste and fostering a sense of locality within the project.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the development. The elevated design of each house is a notable feature, serving to mitigate potential flooding while promoting natural airflow beneath the structures. This careful consideration of environmental factors underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability. Furthermore, the arrangement of spaces within each unit is adaptable, allowing for varied layouts to accommodate different group sizes and activities. This flexibility not only enhances functionality but also fosters a sense of community by encouraging interaction among visitors.

Visually, the architecture maintains a harmonious balance with the surrounding landscape. The use of white paint combined with wooden accents creates an appealing yet unobtrusive facade that merges seamlessly with the natural beauty of the region. This attention to aesthetic detail ensures that the project does not dominate the landscape but rather complements it, reinforcing the idea of fostering connectivity with nature.

Beyond architectural aesthetics and functionality, the project has significant implications for the local community. By focusing on sustainable tourism, it stands to invigorate the economy of Tuzla, creating opportunities for local businesses and encouraging environmentally responsible practices among visitors. The project is designed to minimize energy consumption while enhancing the recreational and experiential aspects of the area, contributing to a thriving seasonal economy that benefits not just the architecture itself but also the surrounding community.

In sum, this architectural project near Tuzla exemplifies a thoughtful integration of design, sustainability, and community engagement. Each aspect has been carefully considered to enhance both the living experience for occupants and the overall environmental impact. Readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs of this project for a deeper understanding of its innovative ideas and approaches. By reviewing these elements, one can appreciate the careful thought that has gone into crafting not just houses, but a renewed sense of place and purpose within the Tuzla region.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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