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Charred Wooden Shingles and Hydroponic Gardens Define a Sustainable Urban Residence

Authors:
Inbo Kang, Sanghyeon Lee, Yunki Min
Charred Wooden Shingles and Hydroponic Gardens Define a Sustainable Urban Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and designed around hydroponic gardens, this residence combines sustainable materials with a focus on community, creating an efficient urban living solution.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates hydroponic gardens to support sustainable urban farming.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and natural light.
05
Employs a Variable Refrigerant Flow HVAC system for improved energy efficiency.

## Overview

Located in Oasis Village, the project exemplifies a modern architectural approach that fuses traditional elements with contemporary construction practices. The design aims to create low-impact living spaces that align with ecological concerns while addressing the functional and comfort needs of modern living. By promoting sustainability and functionality, it serves as a model for future residential projects in community-driven environments.

## Spatial Strategy

The architectural layout emphasizes both community interaction and individual privacy. A zero lot line design enhances site utilization and strengthens neighborhood aesthetics, while the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces through courtyards and expansive terraces allows for abundant natural light and encourages outdoor living. The master suite is thoughtfully positioned to ensure privacy within the communal context, offering residents a personal retreat that coexists with shared social areas. Ground floor elements like the entrance courtyard and great room facilitate social interaction, while upper levels feature additional bedrooms and terraces that promote relaxation and outdoor engagement.

## Material Selection

The project prioritizes sustainability through a selection of efficient and eco-friendly materials. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICF) provide superior insulation, contributing to overall energy savings. Photovoltaic solar panels and variable refrigerant flow HVAC systems enhance energy efficiency and promote self-sufficiency. Water conservation is addressed through recycled water systems for irrigation and an on-demand water heater for immediate hot water availability. Additional features such as LED lighting and hydroponic garden spaces further support a sustainable lifestyle and reduce energy consumption, confirming a commitment to both environmental responsibility and cost-effective construction.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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