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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Elevate a Tranquil Retreat Design

Authors:
Rupert Morley, Patrick Allan, Joe Brierley
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glass Facade Elevate a Tranquil Retreat Design

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and expansive glass walls define a retreat designed for sustainability and comfort, harmonizing with its surrounding landscape while providing functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while offering a unique visual texture.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels contributes to structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space while integrating with the landscape.
04
Elevated post foundation improves water management and minimizes environmental impact.
05
Large glass walls create a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor environments.

### Overview

"The Bothy" is situated near a tranquil body of water, surrounded by a lush green landscape. This project draws inspiration from traditional rustic shelters while reinterpreting them through contemporary design. Its intent is to create a space that fosters a deeper connection with nature, blending modern architectural aesthetics with sustainable practices.

### Structural Design and Materiality

The architectural form features a prominent triangular roof that incorporates traditional sloping elements while maximizing internal space. Elevated on posts, the structure facilitates natural water drainage and enhances resilience against flooding risks. The chosen materials reflect a commitment to sustainability, with locally sourced timber providing structural integrity and warmth. Strategic use of glass for windows and doors allows for abundant natural light, while steel reinforces the foundational support, ensuring durability.

The façade adopts a minimalist aesthetic, featuring wooden cladding that develops a natural patina over time, harmonizing with its surroundings. An overhang provides shade and enhances the visual connection between the indoor and outdoor environments. Inside, the open layout supports versatile use, accommodating social gatherings or quiet retreats. Warm timber finishes contribute to an inviting atmosphere, while the overall design respects the landscape without imposing on it.

### Sustainability and Energy Efficiency

Sustainability is a core theme, with features such as marine electricity generation for renewable power. This energy strategy enhances self-sufficiency and aligns with modern environmental goals. Additionally, the potential incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems emphasizes ecological responsibility. The project’s careful orientation optimizes natural light and views, enhancing user experience while minimizing environmental impact. Through its adaptive design, "The Bothy" not only functions as a shelter but also embodies a commitment to responsible living and environmental stewardship.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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