Get inspired!

16,979 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 in an Eco-Friendly Community Solution

Author:
David Robert Beach
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in an Eco-Friendly Community Solution

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design creates a sustainable community living environment that addresses both ecological concerns and social connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for sustainable structural support.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Includes a rainwater collection system for effective resource management.
05
Designed with community engagement in mind, allowing local participation in construction.
The Eco-Village project is located in the Bagansi region of Oti, Ghana, aiming to address environmental concerns stemming from illegal mining practices. This architectural endeavor focuses on creating a sustainable living environment that promotes ecological balance and community empowerment. The design integrates practical solutions to improve the residents' quality of life while simultaneously working to restore degraded environments.

The Eco-Village serves multiple functions, including housing, education, and community interaction spaces. The structure is designed to accommodate essential living areas such as bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, and communal gathering spaces, all tailored to the needs and cultural practices of the local population. This project is not merely about providing shelter; it instead represents a holistic approach to living, where architecture fosters social connection, environmental awareness, and sustainable practices.

Sustainability is at the core of the project's design. Utilizing materials like recycled wood for the framing, cross-laminated timber (CLT) for walls, and integrating renewable energy sources such as solar panels illustrates the commitment to eco-friendly construction methods. The incorporation of rainwater tanks enables effective water management, further enhancing the project's sustainability profile. Additionally, the architectural design features an efficient layout that maximizes space while minimizing the ecological footprint.

Community involvement is a hallmark of the project, with design elements that encourage local participation in the construction and maintenance processes. This participatory approach not only promotes ownership but also enhances social cohesion among residents. By focusing on modular systems, the design allows for future expansions or adaptations, accommodating changes in population and community needs without compromising environmental integrity.

The Eco-Village stands out due to its comprehensive ecological strategies and community-oriented design. Key unique features include its emphasis on local materials, which not only reduces transportation-related emissions but also supports local economies. The integration of educational resources within the village facilitates knowledge transfer regarding sustainable practices, thus creating a culture of responsibility towards the environment.

The architectural plans reflect meticulous consideration of site conditions and user needs, with sections illustrating the functional distribution of spaces and their relationship to the environment. The project utilizes ventilation strategies that enhance natural airflow, reducing reliance on mechanical systems for comfort. Waste management systems are seamlessly integrated within the design, supporting the project's overarching goal of sustainability.

For those interested in understanding the nuances of this architectural endeavor, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide valuable insights into how the project addresses both function and aesthetics. Explore the architectural ideas presented in the Eco-Village project to gain a deeper appreciation for its unique approach to sustainable living in a challenging ecological context.
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 16,979 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