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Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Concrete Create Adaptable Living Spaces

Authors:
Antonio Basti, Elena Di Giuseppe, Eleonora Sablone, Francesco Bruni
Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Concrete Create Adaptable Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and high-performance concrete, the design creates flexible and sustainable living environments that adapt to the needs of their occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for durability and enhanced weather resistance.
02
Incorporates high-performance concrete panels for superior thermal efficiency.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that allow for modular adaptability.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates smart home technology for efficient energy management and user control.

### Project Overview

Located in an unspecified area, this architectural design focuses on integrating residential living with modern principles of sustainability and multifunctionality. The intent is to enhance energy efficiency, natural light, and adaptability within living environments. By promoting a balance between form and function, the project seeks to create spaces that are both aesthetically contemporary and environmentally responsible.

### Spatial Strategy and Flexibility

The layout is organized to feature a master studio, guest accommodations, and several adaptable residential units, including spaces tailored for young couples and remote offices. The design clearly delineates zones of different uses while maintaining a thoughtful balance between private and communal areas. This organization facilitates interaction among residents, enhancing relationships and everyday living experiences while allowing for the versatility that modern lifestyles require.

### Materiality and Sustainability

High-performance concrete panels are utilized for their durability and energy efficiency, complemented by polycrystalline photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof for renewable energy generation. The building employs argon-filled double-glazed windows, contributing to thermal insulation and ample natural light throughout the spaces. Additionally, back-ventilated cladding assists in moisture management and temperature control.

The architectural assessment indicates an annual energy balance of 6,686 kWh/year, illustrating the project's capacity for energy self-sufficiency, supported by low carbon emissions and efficient resource management. Sustainable water practices have been incorporated, optimizing consumption and recycling within the framework.

The design also emphasizes modular adaptability, allowing living spaces to be reshaped according to occupants' evolving needs, while biophilic elements such as greenery enhance the connection to nature. The minimalist façade showcases geometric forms and a simple color palette that aligns with functional requirements and modern aesthetics. Furthermore, the integration of smart home technologies enables efficient energy management, providing residents with control over their living environments.

### Materials Used
- High-performance cellular concrete panels
- Polycrystalline photovoltaic panels
- Double glazing units
- Expanded polystyrene insulation
- Reinforced concrete panels
- Back-ventilated flooring
- Waterproofing membranes
- Natural wood flooring

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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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