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Charred Wooden Shingles and Floor-to-Ceiling Glass Create a Harmonious Family Home

Author:
Marija Ilic
Charred Wooden Shingles and Floor-to-Ceiling Glass Create a Harmonious Family Home

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles envelop a spacious interior filled with natural light, seamlessly connecting family living spaces to the surrounding landscape in an environmentally conscious residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide a unique aesthetic and enhance fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to both structural integrity and sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light while creating a spacious interior.
04
Large, operable glass doors merge indoor and outdoor living areas seamlessly.
05
Native landscaping minimizes water usage and promotes local biodiversity.
The project presented is a residential architectural design that embodies a blend of modern aesthetics and practical functionality. Located in a suburban area known for its greenery and community-oriented spaces, this project seeks to harmonize with its surrounding environment while offering a contemporary living experience. The architectural design prioritizes both the spatial organization and the user experience, making it an ideal family home.

At the heart of the design is a commitment to creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. Large, floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors facilitate the flow of natural light and offer unobstructed views of the lush landscape, effectively blurring the lines between the interior space and its exterior surroundings. The use of a spacious open floor plan allows for versatile living areas that can adapt to the changing needs of a family. The living room, kitchen, and dining areas are thoughtfully arranged to maximize accessibility and engagement, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents and guests alike.

Materiality plays a critical role in the overall design, further enhancing the architectural language of the project. The primary materials utilized include a combination of natural wood, concrete, and glass. Natural wood is prominently featured in the cladding and flooring, providing warmth and a sense of comfort to the otherwise sleek and modern design. Concrete elements are used strategically in both structural and decorative capacities, contributing to the project’s durability while adding an industrial touch. The extensive use of glass not only allows ample natural light to permeate the spaces but also emphasizes transparency and openness, encouraging a visual connection with the surrounding nature.

The roof design is another noteworthy aspect of the project, featuring a gentle slope that aids in water drainage while also enhancing the overall silhouette of the structure. This roof design complements the local climate and aligns with regional architectural styles, ensuring that the project maintains coherence with its context. Moreover, the integration of overhangs and awnings provides necessary shade, contributing to energy efficiency.

Sustainability is incorporated into the architectural ideas through the selection of energy-efficient materials and systems. The project is equipped with solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems that not only reduce environmental impact but also lower operating costs for the occupants. These sustainable practices reflect a growing trend in architecture that prioritizes ecological responsibility alongside aesthetic considerations.

Unique design approaches in this project can be seen in the attention given to outdoor living spaces, such as the terrace and landscaped gardens. These areas are designed to extend the living space beyond the confines of the interior, encouraging outdoor activities and family gatherings. The landscaping incorporates native plants, promoting biodiversity and reducing water usage, which further enhances the environmental stewardship of the project.

The architectural details are not merely decorative; they contribute to the overall functionality and user experience. Custom cabinetry in the kitchen offers ample storage while maintaining a sleek appearance, and ergonomic choices in furniture design enhance comfort throughout the home. Attention to detail can also be seen in the selection of fixtures and finishes that align with the overall aesthetic, creating a cohesive design narrative.

In summary, this architectural project represents a modern approach to residential design that celebrates functionality while remaining sensitive to its environmental context. The harmonious integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, combined with the careful choice of materials, highlights a commitment to sustainability and quality living. For those interested in a deeper exploration of this project, including architectural plans, sections, and specific design details, a thorough review of the project presentation is highly encouraged. Doing so will provide further insight into the innovative architectural ideas that define this thoughtful design endeavor.
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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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