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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass at a Residential Retreat by the Lake

Authors:
Sean William Usher, Stephen Andrew Oberlin, Chelsey Ellen Rutledge, Thomas Andrew Langrell
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glass at a Residential Retreat by the Lake

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass facades, the design seamlessly connects indoor spaces with the serene landscape of Lake of the Woods, creating a functional residential retreat that emphasizes sustainability and natural light.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and views.
04
Includes concentric wooden screens that create dynamic interior light patterns.
05
Strategically oriented to capture solar gain while minimizing summer heat.
The Sol/Luna project embodies a contemporary architectural design situated by the Lake of the Woods in Canada. This project integrates functional living spaces with an acute awareness of environmental interactions, emphasizing the relationship between the built form and its natural surroundings. The layout and orientation capitalize on the natural light available throughout the day and across seasons, ensuring adequate illumination and a dynamic living experience.

The structure comprises communal and private spaces, including a large living area that fosters social interaction and connectivity with nature through expansive glazing. The design incorporates a central courtyard, linking essential areas such as the kitchen and dining space. Bedrooms are positioned to ensure privacy while still benefiting from engaging views of the surrounding landscape.

The overall layout features a circular pathway system that encourages movement through the home, promoting exploration and interaction among spaces. This flow aligns with the architects' vision of creating a livable environment that respects its topography while providing functional dwellings.

Integration of Natural Elements and Materials
A standout feature of the Sol/Luna project is its thoughtful selection of materials that reinforces a connection to the natural environment. Wood serves as the primary construction material, utilized for structural elements and finishes to provide warmth and texture. Glass is used extensively in façades, ensuring transparency and unobstructed sightlines to the lake and forest. The project employs concrete for its structural benefits, creating a contrast with lightweight wooden components. Local stone is incorporated to enhance the tactile relationship with the site.

An innovative aspect of the design includes concentric screens crafted from wood, which function as both aesthetic and practical elements. These vertical screens provide shade and privacy while generating dynamic light patterns within the interior spaces as sunlight changes throughout the day. The careful modulation of light and shadow creates distinct atmospheres, enriching the living experience.

Sustainable Design Principles
The architectural design reflects a commitment to sustainability and passive energy considerations. Strategic landscape orientation captures solar gain during winter months while providing necessary shading in summer, optimizing energy efficiency. This approach supports comfortable living conditions without relying on mechanical heating and cooling systems.

The Sol/Luna project presents a comprehensive understanding of environmental and spatial dynamics in architecture. It prioritizes not only aesthetics but also functionality, making thoughtful decisions about materiality and design coherence. For those seeking to delve deeper into the architectural insights of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and other architectural ideas, further exploration is encouraged to reveal more about its nuanced architectural expression.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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