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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Transforming Urban Microhousing Solutions

Author:
Philippa Rachel Wyatt
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Transforming Urban Microhousing Solutions

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels define a sustainable approach to urban living, delivering efficient microhousing solutions that stimulate community engagement and environmental awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance and add aesthetic interest.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior height and natural light.
04
Rainwater collection systems promote self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship.
05
Modular configuration allows for flexible arrangement and community adaptability.
The Bird House project presents a contemporary architectural solution aimed at addressing urban housing challenges through the integration of microhomes within city environments. By utilizing modular units, the project exemplifies compact living that promotes efficiency and sustainability. The design focuses on revitalizing neglected urban lots, offering a supportive microcommunity that can adapt to diverse residential needs.

Modular Design and Community Focus

The architecture of the Bird House microhome is characterized by its modularity, allowing individual units to be combined or utilized separately. Each microhome occupies a footprint of 25 square meters, tailored to accommodate essential living functions while maintaining a connection to the outdoors. The design channels the concept of a birdhouse, symbolizing security and community engagement. Key components include multifunctional spaces that foster social interaction among residents, supporting communal living without compromising individual privacy.

Sustainable Materials and Construction

Sustainability is paramount in the Bird House project, with an emphasis on eco-friendly construction practices. The architecture incorporates materials such as Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) for structural support, providing high strength while minimizing environmental impact. Insulated panels by Kingspan QuadCore LLC are used for cladding, ensuring thermal efficiency and durability.

Additional features include rainwater collection systems and solar panels that enhance the energy self-sufficiency of the units. The aesthetic, marked by bright colors and innovative design layouts, contributes to a cohesive urban fabric that revitalizes its surroundings while integrating natural elements through vertical green walls.

Architectural Integration

The design elements of the Bird House extend beyond individual units. Thoughtfully planned communal areas within the microcommunity encourage social interactions, further enhancing the project’s purpose as a collaborative living environment. Each unit is equipped with essential amenities, including efficient kitchen and bathroom facilities, maximizing usability within compact dimensions.

The architectural approach prioritizes light and airflow, utilizing generous window placements to create bright and inviting interiors. This focus on environmental quality reflects the project's broader ambitions of fostering community well-being and environmental sustainability.

To explore further details of the Bird House project, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation materials that outline the innovative architectural ideas employed throughout this initiative.
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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
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