Get inspired!

16,544 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 Enhance Community Living in a Forested Setting

Authors:
Derek Mcmurray, Justin Roth, Erik Stockler, David Folsom
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Community Living in a Forested Setting

Project in-detail

Emerging from the forest with its charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this community-focused retreat provides a harmonious blend of modern living and natural integration, designed to foster connections among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances fire resistance while providing a visually appealing texture.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed to optimize structural stability and minimize environmental impact.
03
The design incorporates large cantilevered roofs, creating shaded outdoor areas that promote social interaction.
04
Natural topography is preserved throughout the site to maintain wildlife habitats and enhance biodiversity.
05
A central courtyard integrates communal gardens, fostering a sense of community and collaboration among residents.
The Interstitial Village is an insightful architectural project that embodies the principles of community living, sustainability, and integration with the natural landscape. Situated in a serene forested environment, the project seeks to foster human connections while respecting and enhancing the quality of the surrounding ecosystem. It presents a vision of architecture that is not only about buildings but also about the interactions and experiences that occur within and around them.

The architecture of the Interstitial Village is characterized by simple, functional forms that blend harmoniously with their natural context. The layout is thoughtfully organized, with various structures positioned to create a cohesive community atmosphere. Each building serves a distinct purpose, from residential cabins to communal kitchens and shared activity spaces, all designed to facilitate social interaction. By clustering these spaces, the design encourages residents to engage with one another, supporting a lifestyle centered on collaboration and communal activities.

A critical aspect of the project is its materiality. The architecture utilizes local materials to create an organic connection with the environment. Wood, in particular, plays a fundamental role, adding warmth and an inviting aesthetic to the structures. Textured timber cladding enhances the tactile qualities of the buildings, while stone elements provide durability and grounding. The roofs are constructed from metal, offering protection against the elements and ensuring longevity. Large glass windows are incorporated to maximize natural light, fostering a sense of openness and bringing the outdoors inside, further enriching the living experience.

What sets the Interstitial Village apart is its emphasis on sustainability and the innovative use of space. The design integrates sustainable practices throughout, opting for energy-efficient systems and local sourcing of materials. This not only reduces the ecological footprint but also cultivates a sense of responsibility among the residents toward their environment. The architecture encourages occupants to appreciate and engage with the natural beauty surrounding them, promoting an inclusive atmosphere that nurtures both individual well-being and community cohesion.

Unique design approaches are evident in the project's layout and features. A central courtyard serves as the heart of the community, providing a shared space for gatherings and social events. This approach enhances visibility and interaction among residents, encouraging a sense of belonging. The buildings are carefully arranged to preserve sightlines and existing topography, ensuring that the natural landscape remains a focal point rather than being overshadowed by construction. Furthermore, the design emphasizes sensory engagement, with spaces crafted to invoke a variety of experiences—visual, auditory, and tactile—that connect residents to the natural environment.

The Interstitial Village stands as a thoughtful architectural endeavor that prioritizes relationships among occupants and their surroundings. By emphasizing community-focused design, sustainable practices, and thoughtful integration of materials, the project illustrates a profound understanding of contemporary living in harmony with nature. The balance of individual and collective spaces allows for a rich tapestry of interactions, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

For those interested in delving deeper into the intricacies of this architectural project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into its thoughtful approaches and unique characteristics. The endeavor of the Interstitial Village is indeed a representation of modern architecture that responds to the needs of its inhabitants while maintaining a respectful dialogue with nature.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 16544 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