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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Design Harmonize with the Landscape

Author:
Tommaso Delia
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Design Harmonize with the Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and designed with geothermal heating, the complex integrates harmoniously into the landscape while providing essential guest accommodations and communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced carbon footprint.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and airflow.
04
Features geothermal heating to minimize energy consumption and environmental impact.
05
Integrated communal spaces to foster interaction while preserving private guest areas.

The architectural project "Map of the Sky" is a thoughtfully designed complex that integrates with its natural hilltop setting. The project aims to create a dialogue between modern architecture and the landscape, facilitating both communal and private experiences. Nestled within a serene geographical context reminiscent of Scandinavian terrain, this project draws inspiration from historical architectural references while incorporating contemporary design strategies.

The design serves multiple functions, including guest accommodations, communal gathering spaces, and service facilities. Each area is skillfully organized to enhance usability while respecting the site's natural features. The overarching philosophy blends a deep respect for local identity and sustainability, ensuring that the architecture is not only visually appealing but also environmentally responsible.

In designing the project, the team emphasizes unique spatial organization and material choices that promote harmony with the surroundings. The architectural forms predominantly take on circular and triangular shapes, providing both structural integrity and aesthetic value. This focus on geometry fosters a sense of unity within communal areas while ensuring a retreat-like atmosphere in the guest quarters.

Sustainable design practices are embedded in the project framework. Geothermal heating systems and rainwater harvesting techniques reduce the ecological footprint while supporting an energy-efficient operation. Such approaches reflect an awareness of climate and site-specific conditions, positioning the project as a contemporary response to environmental challenges.

The common room, crafted as a circular structure, symbolizes the project's core, facilitating social interactions among guests. The well-designed integration of natural light through large windows not only enhances the interior environment but also frames scenic vistas, deepening the user experience. Additionally, the partially underground bath houses echo ancient practices while providing modern amenities, reinforcing the connection to the earth.

The guest accommodation modules showcase minimalistic designs that emphasize comfort and privacy. Each individual unit is engineered to be self-sufficient while maintaining aesthetic cohesion with the main structure, ensuring a seamless transition from private to communal spaces.

The "Map of the Sky" exemplifies a distinct architectural approach that engages users with the environment, combining modern functionality with traditional influences. Readers interested in further exploring the project presentation are encouraged to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and architectural ideas to gain deeper insights into its design methodology and outcomes.

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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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