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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance a Coastal Creative Retreat

Authors:
Qian Yang, Yan ying Zhang
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance a Coastal Creative Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design offers a harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality for a coastal retreat dedicated to artistic creation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Designed with flexible studio spaces to foster creativity and collaboration.
05
Integrates sustainable practices through the use of reclaimed materials and passive solar design.
The Hovering Ivory is an innovative architectural project located on the Isle of Wight, designed to facilitate both artistic creation and personal retreat. The architecture integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape, providing an environment that promotes inspiration and creativity while meeting functional requirements. The project combines distinct spaces for living and artistic endeavors, underscoring a commitment to sustainability and thoughtful design.

Functional Zones and Layout

The project’s layout includes a bedroom, living area, artist's studio, and writer's studio, all organized to enhance interaction among occupants while allowing for privacy. The open-plan design of the living area allows for flexibility, serving as both a communal space and a creative hub. This configuration supports a lifestyle of collaboration and solitude as needed.

Each functional zone is defined through strategic placement of windows and materials. In particular, the artist's studio is designed to maximize natural light, essential for creative work, while insulating the space from external distractions. The writer's studio, with its secluded ambiance and wide views of the coastline, is an ideal setting for focused work.

Sustainable Design and Materiality

The Hovering Ivory stands out for its sustainable design choices. The project employs a material palette that includes polished concrete for durability, light wood for warmth, and large glass expanses for illumination and views. This combination not only contributes to the aesthetic of the building but also promotes energy efficiency through passive solar design and natural ventilation.

Unique design approaches are evident in the incorporation of skylights, which effectively enhance daylight penetration while minimizing reliance on artificial lighting. The use of reclaimed wood in the construction of bookshelves underscores an emphasis on sustainability by reducing the environmental impact associated with new materials.

Innovative Architectural Elements

Key architectural elements include the curved walls of the bedroom that create an illusion of expanded space, and the open central core that enhances air circulation and light flow throughout the structure. The dynamic proportions of the building not only create visual interest but also contribute to a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape.

The layout encourages exploration and movement within the space, with each zone imaginable as part of a larger narrative of artistic creation. These design elements, coupled with an awareness of the natural environment, create a residence that invites creativity while being firmly rooted in its context.

For a more in-depth understanding of the design and construction of The Hovering Ivory, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and designs that detail the thought processes and innovative architectural ideas behind the project. Engage with this project presentation to gain further insights into the unique aspects of The Hovering Ivory.
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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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