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Charred Wooden Shingles And Expansive Glass Embrace Nature In A Family Residence

Author:
Kamil Piotr Domachowski
Charred Wooden Shingles And Expansive Glass Embrace Nature In A Family Residence

Project in-detail

Using charred wooden shingles and expansive glass, the design integrates seamlessly with its forest surroundings, creating a family residence that prioritizes natural light and connection to the outdoor environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and aesthetic appeal while minimizing maintenance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength with reduced carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design promotes natural ventilation and solar gain throughout the year.
04
Large glass facades create continuous visual connections with the surrounding forest.
05
Integrated landscaping complements the architectural form and supports local ecology.
The Open to the Forest House is a residential architectural project located in Galanta, Slovakia. The design emphasizes a connection between indoor living spaces and the surrounding natural environment, reflecting a modern interpretation of ecological integration in architecture. The house occupies a 6000 m² site with a footprint of 250 m², incorporating an open layout and extensive use of natural materials to create a serene and functional living space.

The primary function of this project is to serve as a family residence that merges comfort with nature. The architectural design fosters an interactive living experience through large openings and panoramic views that integrate the home into its forested setting. The main living areas are designed to be communal and inviting while providing privacy in more personal spaces, such as bedrooms and bathrooms.

Unique Design Approaches

The distinctive aspects of the Open to the Forest House lie in its material choices and spatial organization. The exterior features a façade predominantly composed of timber and glass, which facilitates natural light ingress and visual access to the lush landscape. This approach minimizes the need for artificial lighting during daytime hours, contributing to energy efficiency.

The roof structure, characterized by its dual-pitched design, not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes natural ventilation, a key consideration in achieving optimal indoor climate control. This geometric variation stands in contrast to conventional flat roofs commonly found in residential design, providing additional character to the structure.

The integration of the surrounding landscape plays a significant role in the project’s identity. The design incorporates soft landscaping that mimics the site's natural topography, encouraging outdoor exploration and interaction. The inclusion of terraces and balconies extends living spaces externally, allowing residents to fully engage with their environment.

Exploring Architectural Elements

To gain a deeper understanding of the Open to the Forest House, one can examine its architectural plans and sections. The ground floor is configured as an open plan with interconnected living, dining, and kitchen areas, promoting family interaction. The choice of an underground garage allows for efficient use of space while preserving the aesthetics of the property above ground.

The first floor is dedicated to private areas, including bedrooms and a play area for children. Balconies are an important feature, providing private outdoor access and enhancing the overall livability of the space. Additionally, the careful orientation of living spaces maximizes passive solar gain throughout different seasons.

For more detailed insights into the architectural design and planning of the Open to the Forest House, including architectural plans and sections, one is encouraged to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive view of the architectural ideas and design elements that define this unique residential project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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