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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Community Hub

Author:
Stefano Giovacchini
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design emphasizes sustainability while offering versatile community spaces within an urban context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a distinctive bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and natural light.
04
Integrates green roofs to promote biodiversity and improve thermal performance.
05
Emphasizes pedestrian connectivity with accessible pathways and communal areas.

Located in an urban setting, the project aims to enhance the surrounding environment by integrating functional spaces with community needs. The design prioritizes accessibility and encourages social interaction, reflecting a commitment to fostering connections among users. The strategic orientation and placement of the structure respond to site constraints and environmental considerations, ensuring efficient use of space while maximizing natural light.

**Spatial Strategy**
The layout employs an open-plan configuration that promotes fluid movement and adaptability within the interior spaces. Zones are delineated through changes in ceiling height and varied floor levels, facilitating distinct yet interconnected areas. This approach not only optimizes the flow of traffic but also allows for flexible usage according to the diverse activities anticipated within the facility.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
The selection of materials reflects both aesthetic and environmental priorities. Local resources are utilized to minimize transportation impacts, while the palette includes durable finishes designed to reduce maintenance requirements. Sustainable technologies, such as rainwater harvesting systems and energy-efficient lighting, are integrated into the design to promote resource conservation and support the project’s resilience against climate factors.

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

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Competition organisers

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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