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Charred Wooden Shingles and Hydroponic Gardens in a Community-Focused Farmhouse Design

Author:
Hai Ngo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Hydroponic Gardens in a Community-Focused Farmhouse Design

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles and integrated hydroponic gardens, the design merges sustainable materials with a circular layout to create a multifunctional farmhouse that fosters community engagement and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates hydroponic gardens that allow for year-round food production within the living space.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide not only an aesthetic appeal but also enhance fire resistance and durability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are employed for their structural efficiency while minimizing the building's carbon footprint.
04
A circular layout promotes communal interaction and creates a central gathering space that encourages social engagement.
05
The integration of a green roof supports biodiversity and facilitates rainwater management, reinforcing sustainability principles.
The Nomad Farmhouse represents a thoughtful integration of architectural design and the surrounding landscape, establishing a framework that values both community engagement and sustainability. Situated in a remote rural area, this project serves as a modern homestead that invites occupants to connect with nature while fostering communal ties. It is designed to be more than just a dwelling; it functions as a community hub where individuals can gather, learn, and participate in agricultural practices, all within a thoughtfully crafted environmental context.

At the core of the Nomad Farmhouse’s architectural design is a commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility. The building’s circular form draws inspiration from traditional nomadic shelters, allowing it to create a sense of belonging and inclusivity among its users. This shape not only promotes community interaction but also reflects a deep respect for the natural features that surround it. The layout encourages social engagement, with communal spaces designed to accommodate various activities such as workshops and gatherings, thereby reinforcing the importance of community in rural living.

In terms of functionality, the Nomad Farmhouse is divided into distinct layers, offering both private and communal spaces. The mezzanine level provides areas for quiet reflection or private accommodation, while the main level includes multifunctional spaces such as dining areas and communal kitchens. This thoughtful arrangement allows for versatility, ensuring that the needs and activities of the occupants are effectively met. Moreover, the farm’s operational components are integral to its design, as it not only provides shelter but also promotes self-sufficiency through agricultural practices.

The use of materials is a crucial aspect of the Nomad Farmhouse, emphasizing sustainability and natural aesthetics. Wood serves as the primary structural component, providing warmth and a tactile connection to nature. The incorporation of glass in the design further enhances the relationship between the interior and the surrounding environment, flooding spaces with natural light and offering unobstructed views of the landscape. Textiles are also utilized in the design, particularly within the communal areas, adding softness and a sense of comfort to the overall experience. Additionally, stone elements can be observed in the landscape design, effectively blending the structure with its topography.

A distinctive feature of the Nomad Farmhouse is its commitment to innovative environmental strategies. The green roof serves a dual purpose, functioning as a natural insulator and promoting biodiversity by allowing plant life to flourish. This roof assists with rainwater collection, supporting the project's water sustainability goals. Vertical hydroponic gardens integrated into the design facilitate year-round food production, reinforcing the farmhouse’s role as a center for education and sustainable agricultural practices.

Lighting also plays a significant role in the project, with natural light being a focal point in the design strategy. The placement of windows and skylights is carefully considered to enhance daylight penetration, creating bright and inviting interiors. The nighttime illumination of the structure adds another layer to the atmosphere, ensuring that it remains a welcoming space that can be appreciated at all times of the day.

The Nomad Farmhouse distinguishes itself through its conscious design choices that encapsulate the principles of community, sustainability, and connection to nature. Its architectural language harmonizes with the landscape, showcasing how modern design can respect and enhance traditional living concepts. This project serves as an insightful example of how architecture can adapt to and embrace the environment, promoting a lifestyle that values ecological responsibility and social interaction. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of the Nomad Farmhouse further, a closer examination of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas would provide deeper insights into the thoughtful details that define this unique project.
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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
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