Get inspired!

17,725 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 Shape a Sustainable Multi-Level Residence

Author:
James Llewellyn Wells
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Shape a Sustainable Multi-Level Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this multi-level residence integrates sustainable materials with a modular layout to enhance both private and communal living experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a modular layout that allows for future expansion.
02
Incorporates passive solar design principles to enhance energy efficiency.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles to promote fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features rounded windows that provide unique light patterns indoors.
05
Includes a dedicated prayer area, reflecting cultural significance in the design.

### Project Overview
The "House of the Future" presents a forward-thinking approach to residential design, focusing on sustainability and functionality. Positioned in an adaptable context, the project skillfully merges modernist and traditional architectural elements, which facilitates its integration into various environments. The design aims to enhance communal living while providing private spaces, catering to both social interaction and individual needs.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout is organized across three levels, each serving distinct functions to support family life. The ground floor features an open-plan living and dining area that promotes flexibility and communal interaction, along with necessary support spaces such as a laundry room and garage. The second level is dedicated to private sleeping quarters, each with en-suite facilities and balconies that encourage outdoor connection. The top level is specifically designed for prayer, highlighting its cultural significance while offering a tranquil environment for reflection. The elevations boast verticality and a rhythmic interplay of materials, enhanced by elements such as round windows that create dynamic light patterns indoors and overhangs that define semi-external spaces for relaxation.

### Material Selection
The project employs a careful selection of materials that balance aesthetics with functionality. Structural steel provides durability, particularly in supporting the distinctive roof shapes, while concrete serves as a robust foundation and wall material. Large glass panels are incorporated to maximize natural light and facilitate a sense of openness. Natural wood elements introduce warmth into the interiors, contrasting with the modern exterior. Textiles add an additional layer of sensory experience, enriching the overall ambiance. Furthermore, sustainable design strategies are evident through features such as green roofs, which contribute to energy efficiency and support local biodiversity, reflecting a commitment to ecological responsibility.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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