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Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades in a Tiered Mountain Retreat

Author:
Roi Ramon
Charred Wooden Shingles and Glazed Facades in a Tiered Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and expansive glazed facades, this mountain residence maximizes views while providing a seamless indoor-outdoor living experience for a modern family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes snow management and views.
04
Includes extensive glazing to promote natural light and integrate indoor-outdoor spaces.
05
Strategically positioned terraces increase outdoor living areas without compromising privacy.

### Project Overview

Located in a mountainous region characterized by snow-covered landscapes, the residence exemplifies contemporary design integrated with its natural surroundings. The intent of the project is to create functional living spaces that prioritize both aesthetic appeal and user comfort, while maximizing the site's inherent views and light.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The architectural design incorporates a carefully curated selection of materials that enhance both the visual and functional aspects of the residence:

1. **Wood** (potentially Cedar or Pine): Utilized for exterior cladding, this material offers warmth and complements the natural environment. It is designed to weather over time, contributing character to the building.

2. **Concrete**: Serving as the primary structural element, concrete provides stability and durability necessary for the setting’s climatic conditions. It also functions effectively for foundational components, ensuring longevity against environmental stresses.

3. **Glass**: Extensive use of large glass panels facilitates the penetration of natural light and establishes a visual connection with the surrounding landscape. This enhances the overall spatial experience by merging indoors with outdoors.

4. **Metal** (likely Aluminum or Steel): This material is utilized in structural features such as railings, contributing both strength and a modern aesthetic to the overall design.

5. **Insulation Materials**: In response to the cold climate, these materials play a critical role in enhancing energy efficiency and ensuring occupant comfort throughout the residence.

### Spatial Organization

The project's spatial layout is methodically organized across three levels to promote functionality and connectivity among living spaces:

- **Ground Floor**: Features an accessible entry that leads to essential amenities, including compact restroom facilities and designated storage to maintain organization within the overall design.

- **First Floor**: Incorporates an open living area that combines kitchen and dining spaces, emphasizing family interactions. The living room is strategically placed to take advantage of sweeping views, with easy access to outdoor terraces that facilitate outdoor living.

- **Second Floor**: Designated spaces for bedrooms and a work area ensure privacy while prioritizing natural light and views. Utility areas are thoughtfully incorporated to maintain a streamlined flow throughout the levels.

### Structural Composition

The house's elevations reflect a careful interplay of materials and textures, with sloping roofs designed to manage snow accumulation while contributing to a modern aesthetic.

- **West Elevation**: Features expansive glass sections that optimize sunlight exposure.
- **North Elevation**: Incorporates more subdued elements to enhance privacy while maintaining engagement with the environment.
- **East and South Elevations**: Balance solid and glass surfaces to achieve a dynamic interaction between transparency and concealment.

### Contextual Considerations

The project is situated among similar structures that collectively foster a sense of community while ensuring individual privacy. Landscaping efforts prioritize the preservation of existing trees and topography, reflecting a commitment to sustainable integration within the site.

This contemporary approach to mountain architecture successfully combines modern design principles with contextually responsive elements, creating a residential environment that is both appealing and functional.

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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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