Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

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

Author:
Maria Lousinha
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Defined by charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a harmonious blend of sustainability and community living within an urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce carbon footprint while offering structural strength.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes internal space while fostering natural light flow.
04
Integrated green spaces encourage community interaction and promote biodiversity.
05
Multi-functional areas within the complex support versatile living and social engagement.

### Project Overview
Located adjacent to Wandsworth Park, the residential complex is designed to reflect contemporary living while promoting adaptability. The project aims to redefine apartment living by integrating modern architectural principles with an emphasis on functionality and community engagement. Through an intentional arrangement of buildings and thoughtful consideration of space and materiality, the design harmonizes with the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Configuration and Community Integration
The layout features a systematic grid arrangement, facilitating access to green spaces that enhance the urban landscape and foster a sense of community. The positioning of buildings optimally frames views of Wandsworth Park, allowing residents to connect with the natural environment. The design prioritizes natural light and ventilation, evident in the use of larger windows and balconies that extend the living spaces outdoors. Ground-level community areas and service facilities enhance accessibility, while underground parking mitigates traffic congestion, promoting a pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

### Material Selection and Aesthetic Diversity
A deliberate mix of materials enhances both the functionality and visual appeal of the complex. Concrete is employed for structural integrity, while expansive glass facades contribute to transparency and spaciousness. Brick accents add texture and grounding to the design. Wood elements in interior spaces introduce warmth, catering to comfort within the residences. This varied material palette not only enriches the aesthetic experience but also aligns with contemporary expectations for durability and environmental sustainability, reflecting a commitment to both design innovation and livability.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy