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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing in Harmonious Environmental Integration

Author:
Dajana Elez
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing in Harmonious Environmental Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and extensive glazing, the design creates a seamless dialogue between interior spaces and the natural landscape, providing a versatile communal environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a bent A-frame design to enhance structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that optimize thermal performance and sustainability.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and a visual texture that blends with the environment.
04
Utilizes extensive glazing to maximize natural light and create immersive connections with the surrounding landscape.
05
Integrates a modular layout that promotes flexible use for various communal activities.

The architectural design project presents a cohesive structure that harmonizes with its natural surroundings, effectively merging contemporary forms with eco-conscious principles. The design emphasizes transparency and connectivity with the environment, which is evident in the extensive use of glass and sustainable materials. This strategic approach facilitates a unique experience of indoor and outdoor spaces, promoting a sense of unity with nature. Functionally, the project serves as a versatile space capable of accommodating various activities, from residential living to communal interactions.

Innovative Use of Transparency and Light

A defining feature of this project is its extensive use of glass facades, which allow ample natural light to penetrate interior spaces and create a seamless transition with the landscape. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also minimizes the need for artificial lighting during the day. The carefully crafted glass surfaces contribute to energy efficiency, aligning with sustainable architectural practices. Moreover, the reflective qualities of the glass mirror the surrounding landscape, blending the structure within its context and fostering an appreciation for nature.

The design incorporates a thoughtful layout that guides users through the space, with pathways leading to focal points such as natural water features and communal gathering areas. This intentional organization promotes interaction while providing moments of solitude, suitable for both social engagement and personal reflection. The incorporation of outdoor seating areas and natural landscaping further enhances the project's versatility.

Materials and Textural Harmony

The project utilizes a range of materials that contribute to its overall functionality and aesthetic depth. Key materials include concrete, glass, wood, stone, and textiles. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, providing robustness while allowing for creative forms. Wood is employed for flooring and furniture, which introduces warmth and comfort to the spaces. The combination of stone details reinforces the connection to the earth, creating a tactile experience.

Textural harmony is achieved through the juxtaposition of different materials, where modern design elements coalesce with natural finishes. This careful selection enhances the sensory experience within the architecture. The inclusion of greenery, both inside and outside, supports biodiversity and reinforces the concept of a living, breathing space.

For a comprehensive examination of the design elements, architectural plans, sections, and designs, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the presentation of this project. Understanding the architectural ideas and unique strategies employed will provide valuable insights into the innovative principles guiding this design. Exploration of these aspects will enhance appreciation for the architecture's seamless integration with its environment.

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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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