Get inspired!

17,495 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 Elevated Living Spaces

Authors:
David Scurry, Nicholas Coates
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Elevated Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Elevated above the landscape, the use of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels creates a seamless integration of nature and structure in a contemporary retreat designed for reflection and connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design incorporates a bent A-frame structure for enhanced spatial dynamics.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and aesthetic texture.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels ensure structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Strategic orientation captures optimal views and natural light penetration.
05
Design promotes varied experiences of privacy and openness within the landscape.
The architectural project "In, Out, Up" features a thoughtful design consisting of three interconnected structures that engage both their interior spaces and the surrounding environment. Each structure serves a distinct purpose, fostering a multifaceted interaction between the occupants and nature. The project emphasizes spatial dynamics, enabling occupants to experience varying relationships with their surroundings.

The structures are designed to enhance users’ connections to nature through their positioning, form, and materiality. Occupants move fluidly between enclosed and open areas, promoting an ongoing engagement with the landscape. The project successfully integrates architectural form with the natural context, encouraging varied experiences of space, privacy, and exposure.

Unique Interaction Between Spaces

The design of "In, Out, Up" uniquely employs elevation and orientation to extend interactions between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. While traditional architecture often relies on static views, this project integrates sensory experiences by inviting individuals to transition through different elevations and perspectives. For example, the room designed for stargazing elevates occupants above the ground plane, fostering a direct connection to the night sky. In contrast, rooms closer to the earth emphasize warmth and introspection. Such variations allow the project to cater to diverse user needs, making it adaptable for different contexts.

Materiality and Sustainability

The material choices in "In, Out, Up" play a critical role in achieving the project’s objectives. The architecture utilizes timber, glass, steel, and concrete to create structural integrity while also ensuring aesthetic coherence. Timber provides warmth and a natural connection to the environment, while glass panels offer transparency and light, enhancing the spatial experience. Steel elements contribute durability, especially in areas requiring structural support. Concrete forms the foundation, anchoring the structures to the site. This careful selection of materials not only addresses functionality but also aligns with sustainable design principles, using local and performance-oriented resources.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs that further illustrate the thoughtful approach taken in "In, Out, Up," readers are encouraged to review the detailed presentation of the project. Understanding the unique architectural ideas behind the design will provide deeper insights into its innovative use of space and material.
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 17,495 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