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Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Elevate Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Harry Bix
Charred Wooden Shingles and Green Roofs Elevate Sustainable Urban Living
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive green roofs, the design redefines urban living by harmonizing ecological efficiency with spacious, interconnected interiors for a contemporary residence.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a green roof that enhances insulation and promotes local biodiversity.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, optimizing natural light and views.
04
Integrates passive solar heating and natural ventilation for energy efficiency.
05
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for structural strength and sustainability.

The project under analysis is an architectural design that embodies a thoughtful approach to contemporary living while addressing the nuances of its geographical location. The design integrates functionality with aesthetics, creating spaces that respond to both environmental and cultural contexts.

The project features a cohesive arrangement of materials such as concrete, glass, steel, and timber, which work in harmony to enhance the architectural narrative. The layout emphasizes openness, facilitating interaction and maximizing the use of natural light. Interior spaces are delineated by strategically placed partitions that maintain a sense of connectivity while providing privacy where needed.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its integration with the surrounding landscape. The design incorporates green roofs and terraces that not only serve as recreational areas but also contribute to environmental sustainability by enhancing insulation and encouraging biodiversity. This focus on ecological responsibility is a hallmark of the project, differentiating it from typical designs in similar urban settings.

The project's form is defined by a series of layered volumes that create dynamic visual interest. Each volume is oriented to capture views and sunlight while considering the privacy of neighboring structures. The use of large, floor-to-ceiling windows is a key design feature, promoting an indoor-outdoor relationship that invites natural scenery into the living spaces. This approach fosters a sense of tranquility and connection to nature, which is often prioritized in modern residential architecture.

Additionally, the design incorporates innovative architectural concepts such as passive solar heating and natural ventilation systems. These elements not only reduce reliance on mechanical systems but also contribute to lower energy consumption. The careful selection of materials, including sustainably sourced timber and high-performance glazing, further exemplifies the project’s commitment to sustainability.

In concluding this analysis, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with this project for a deeper understanding of its spatial organization and design principles. Engaging with these elements will provide additional insights into the architectural ideas that drive this exemplary project.

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competition now

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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Advance registration deadline 18 September 2025
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
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 October 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025
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Design a memorial that speaks to the cause of ending all nuclear weapons programs

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