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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Integration in a Sustainable Guest House

Author:
Norbert Sipos
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Integration in a Sustainable Guest House

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles to seamlessly blend with its rural surroundings, the sustainable guest house exemplifies a commitment to environmental sensitivity while providing a versatile space for community workshops and accommodations.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of shou sugi ban technique for charred wooden shingles enhances durability while creating a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide both structural integrity and natural insulation, promoting energy efficiency.
03
The design features a bent A-frame structure, offering unique spatial dynamics and visual interest.
04
An emphasis on landscape integration allows the building to harmonize with its rural setting and promote outdoor engagement.
05
Community workshops are incorporated into the layout, fostering social interaction and local involvement.
The Teamakers Guest House project serves as an exemplary model of modern architecture harmonizing with the historical fabric of its context. Located in a picturesque rural environment, this architectural endeavor centers around the adaptive reuse of an existing stone barn, showcasing an intentional blend of historical preservation and contemporary design. The project emphasizes functionality while at the same time promoting sustainability, demonstrating a thoughtful approach that reflects a growing trend within the architecture field aimed at reducing environmental impact and fostering community engagement.

The design represents a commitment to eco-friendly practices and contemporary aesthetics, serving a dual purpose of preserving the past while accommodating modern needs. The architectural layout clearly delineates public and private zones, effectively optimizing social interaction in communal areas while providing privacy and comfort in private quarters. This strategic division allows for the usability of space tailored to different activities, ranging from workshops to intimate guest accommodations, promoting a versatile function that is highly relevant in today's society.

One of the crucial aspects of this project is its unique design approach, specifically in the use of materials. The incorporation of channelled timber, utilizing the shou sugi ban technique, not only enhances the visual appeal of the building but also ensures durability and resistance to weather conditions. Alongside timber, aluminum is thoughtfully employed, especially in structural components, offering a lightweight yet sturdy alternative that embodies modern engineering principles. Glass features prominently in the design, with large windows utilizing Low-E technology to maximize natural light and foster a connection between the interior and the surrounding landscape. This choice aids in creating an inviting atmosphere within the guest house, drawing visitors closer to nature while maintaining energy efficiency.

The integration of insulation materials such as EPS and mineral wool reflects a comprehensive approach to environmental sustainability, ensuring thermal performance that reduces the overall energy needs of the building. Furthermore, the foundation and structural components made of concrete contribute to the building’s longevity, underscoring an architectural focus on durability and engineering excellence.

Also noteworthy is the building's relationship with its site. It is carefully positioned to enhance its interaction with the landscape, ensuring minimal visual disruption and promoting the natural beauty of the rural setting. This dedication to site integration is not merely an aesthetic concern but a fundamental aspect of the architectural philosophy underpinning the project. A landscape that encourages outdoor activities and social interaction extends the functionality of the guest house beyond its walls, promoting a communal experience that is essential to its intended use.

The Teamakers Guest House stands as a testament to innovative architectural approaches focused on both heritage and contemporary living. By blending modern design principles with a respect for historical context and environmental concerns, it offers a compelling vision for future architectural endeavors. Those interested in exploring further details about the architectural plans, sections, and overall architectural ideas are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation. Doing so will illuminate the myriad of design considerations and thoughtful decisions that shape this significant contribution to the field of architecture.
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Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
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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
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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