Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Craft a Distinctive Culinary Hub and Community Space

Authors:
Lídia Cruz, Afonso Portela
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Craft a Distinctive Culinary Hub and Community Space

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and local stone, the design embodies a seamless blend of contemporary function and historical context, serving as a community hub for culinary experiences and gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and structural efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
Central courtyard design fosters community interaction and connection to the surrounding landscape.
05
Utilizes locally sourced stone to ensure harmony with the regional architectural context.

The project is an architectural design that embodies a thoughtful integration of various functions situated in a landscape marked by historical significance and natural beauty. It combines spaces for agriculture, gastronomy, and community engagement, reflecting a deep understanding of the local context. The design leverages the site’s topography, allowing for functional versatility and aesthetic cohesion.

The architecture of the project includes modular meeting rooms, a restaurant, an event space, and hospitality elements, all connected to promote interaction and accessibility. This multifaceted approach enables the structure to act as both a functional venue and as a gathering point for cultural activities, thereby enriching community life.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinctive aspects of this project is its emphasis on the three epochs that inform the architectural narrative: agriculture, gastronomy, and public life. By paying homage to the historical context of the region, the design incorporates elements reminiscent of traditional vineyard architecture while using modern techniques to create functional spaces. This approach facilitates a connection between past practices and contemporary needs, situating the project as a vital part of the local heritage.

Another notable feature is the architectural layout, which revolves around a central courtyard designed to serve as a communal space. The configuration encourages social interactions, while pathways integrated into the landscape promote exploration and accessibility throughout the site. Elevated walkways enhance connectivity and provide visual engagement with the surrounding environment, distinguishing this project from standard developments.

Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials underscores the functional and aesthetic goals of the design. Concrete, steel, glass, wood, and local stone are utilized strategically to harmonize with the project’s narrative. The materials not only fulfill structural requirements but also resonate with the site's character. The integration of locally sourced materials supports sustainability and fosters a strong connection to the place.

The project’s architectural sections reveal a meticulous focus on spatial organization that enhances user experiences in both private and public areas. The design outcomes demonstrate a cohesive execution aimed at promoting community interaction and celebrating the local culture.

Overall, this architectural project stands as a testament to how thoughtful design can foster engagement, reflect historical context, and serve diverse functions. To gain deeper insights into the project's architectural plans, sections, and unique design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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
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
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 17,725 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