Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Create Nature-Integrated Residential Design

Authors:
Emmanuel Suárez, Juan manuel Blanco peralta, Ignacio Tarda
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Create Nature-Integrated Residential Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and integrated green roofs, this residential design merges biophilic elements with modular living spaces to enhance the connection between inhabitants and their natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing space and maximizing natural light.
04
Includes integrated green roofs that support local biodiversity and rainwater management.
05
Utilizes modular configurations, allowing flexibility in space and layout.
The project "Cajita" represents an innovative approach to residential architecture, emphasizing a modular design that fosters a connection between the built environment and nature. This architectural endeavor prioritizes flexibility and sustainability, offering diverse living options that adapt to various user needs and environmental contexts. By integrating green elements and employing a modular framework, this design aims to redefine modern living spaces, focusing on both functionality and ecological awareness.

Unique Modular Design for Versatile Living

One of the standout features of the Cajita project is its modular design, which allows for various configurations based on user requirements. The project accommodates different lifestyles through models such as compact, strip, and dispersed layouts, highlighting adaptability in residential architecture. Each configuration supports efficient space utilization while maintaining comfort and functionality. The emphasis on modularity also facilitates easy construction and customization, allowing residents to modify their living spaces in response to changing needs.

The architectural plan is complemented by the integration of green roofs and living walls, contributing to ecological sustainability and enhancing urban biodiversity. These design elements serve as functional and aesthetic enhancements, capturing rainwater and promoting plant growth within the residential structure. The ability to incorporate vegetation directly into living spaces challenges conventional notions of housing and underscores the importance of environmental stewardship within the residential sector.

Integration of Natural Elements in Design

The Cajita project embodies a commitment to environmental integration. Each structural element is strategically designed to promote interaction with the surrounding landscape. The placing of windows and the use of transparent materials enable natural light to flood the interiors, reducing the need for artificial lighting and boosting overall well-being. The architectural materials selected—lightweight steel or wood for the framework and eco-friendly finishes—align with sustainability principles, ensuring energy-efficient living.

The project also emphasizes communal and shared spaces, encouraging interaction among residents while preserving personal privacy. This is achieved through thoughtful spatial configurations that balance private and shared areas efficiently. The incorporation of natural water management systems, such as harvesting rainwater, further enhances the ecological focus of the design, ensuring that the project contributes positively to its environment.

The architectural plans and sections of the Cajita project offer deeper insights into the innovative design approaches employed. By exploring the architectural designs, readers can gain a comprehensive understanding of how modularity, sustainability, and nature connectivity create a harmonious living environment. Interested parties are encouraged to review these architectural elements to appreciate the thoughtful design decisions that shape this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy