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Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces in a Modular Residential Framework

Author:
Jonnathan Calle
Charred Wooden Shingles and Flexible Spaces in a Modular Residential Framework

Project in-detail

With its unique charred wooden shingles and a modular design that allows for incremental expansion, this residential space adapts to the evolving needs of its inhabitants while maintaining a strong connection to the community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and offer a distinct aesthetic.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and improved thermal performance.
03
Designed with a flexible layout allowing for phased additions based on resident needs.
04
Emphasizes natural light through strategic placement of large windows integrated into the bent A-frame structure.
05
Fosters a sense of community by including outdoor spaces that encourage social interactions among neighbors.
The Incremental House project, designed by Jonathan Calle, presents a thoughtful exploration of residential architecture that emphasizes flexibility and adaptability. This design is conceived as a living organism, capable of evolving to meet the changing needs of its inhabitants. The project represents a significant shift in how we approach housing, focusing on user agency and personalization while maintaining a connection to the community.

Functionally, the Incremental House serves as a primary living space with the potential for remarkable expansion. At its core, the house is organized around a central structural component, which includes essential services such as bathrooms, kitchens, and storage. This core facilitates a well-structured layout that allows for easy navigation and interaction among spaces, promoting a sense of community within the home environment. The design enables users to incrementally add new rooms or functional areas, effectively transforming their living arrangements over time based on their specific needs and preferences.

The project’s unique design approach is characterized by its emphasis on modularity. Each phase of development is clearly delineated, providing a roadmap for residents who might want to customize their living spaces. As families grow or their lifestyles shift, they can incorporate new areas such as additional bedrooms, workspaces, or social hubs. This encourages a dynamic living environment where the architecture itself becomes an active participant in the lives of its residents.

Material choice plays a crucial role in the overall character of the Incremental House. The integration of concrete, steel, wood, and glass not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also underlines durability and sustainability. Concrete serves as a robust foundation, while steel provides critical structural support for future expansions. The warm tones of wood offer comfort and a sense of belonging, and the incorporation of glass allows for ample natural light, forging a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This combination of materials reflects a commitment to creating a home that is both practical and inviting.

One particularly noteworthy aspect of the Incremental House is its engagement with the surrounding community. The design encourages social interaction through its layout, which includes front and backyard spaces that can serve as informal gathering spots among neighbors. This consideration of communal life is essential in contemporary housing design, especially in urban environments where isolation can become prevalent.

The overall architectural design promotes not just a house but a complete lifestyle, where residents feel empowered to shape their surroundings according to their evolving needs. The Incremental House stands as a representation of modern residential architecture that is responsive to individual and collective lifestyles, embodying a philosophy that values both personal expression and communal connection.

For those interested in examining this project more closely, I encourage you to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into its unique architectural ideas and how they come together to create a versatile living space. The Incremental House is not merely a structure; it serves as a model for sustainable urban living, adapting to the realities of life in a thoughtful and innovative manner.
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MICROHOME
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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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