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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Integrate to Form Sustainable Coastal Retreat

Author:
Asko Päiviö Lax
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Integrate to Form Sustainable Coastal Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design achieves a sustainable interaction with its coastal environment while providing luxury accommodations aimed at fostering relaxation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while reducing carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior volume and natural light.
04
Native plants in landscaping minimize water usage and promote local biodiversity.
05
Underground cooling tubes naturally regulate temperatures without reliance on HVAC systems.

**Overview and Context**

Located in a coastal region defined by a stark contrast of ocean and desert, the design prioritizes sustainable construction principles while integrating contemporary architecture with the surrounding landscape. The intent is to redefine luxury accommodations in a contextually sensitive manner, emphasizing environmental consciousness through innovative design and material choices.

**Architectural Composition**

The project features a multi-segmented architectural layout, prominently showcasing a main hotel structure characterized by a modern glass facade with sharp angles and expansive windows. This design facilitates natural light penetration and unobstructed views of the ocean and desert. Complementing this are individual guest villas, designed to reflect traditional forms while incorporating modern amenities, and an outdoor pool area that extends the relaxation experience into the landscape, enhancing guest comfort and interaction with nature.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

The choice of materials plays a pivotal role in the project’s execution. Predominantly featuring wood, the design leverages its renewable properties and thermal performance, contributing to the overall aesthetic and environmental goals. High-performance smart glass enhances energy efficiency through temperature regulation, while durable concrete is utilized in outdoor amenity spaces. Insulated wooden frames help maintain internal comfort, minimizing reliance on traditional cooling systems. Additionally, solar power systems are integrated as an optional feature, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainable energy sourcing. The landscaping incorporates native plants to optimize water usage and promote biodiversity, utilizing hanging gardens for both aesthetic appeal and natural cooling.

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

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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

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