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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create Elevated Retreats Emphasizing Connection to Nature

Authors:
Ana González gonzález, Paula Vegas carrizo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Create Elevated Retreats Emphasizing Connection to Nature

Project in-detail

Elevated on stilts and clad in charred wooden shingles, a series of self-contained retreats fosters an intimate connection to the surrounding landscape while serving as spaces for quiet reflection and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with poet huts that encourage creativity and solitude.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Elevated structures on stilts provide panoramic views and enhance ecological interaction.
04
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
05
Features interconnected pathways that promote exploration and community engagement.
The project, "To the Limit," represents a thoughtful exploration of the symbiosis between architecture and the natural environment, emphasizing sensory engagement as an integral part of the human experience. Positioned within a carefully curated geographical context, this architectural endeavor is designed not only as a collection of living spaces but also as a vibrant community hub that encourages interaction among its inhabitants and their surroundings.

At its core, the project functions as a multi-faceted environment that facilitates both communal gathering and personal retreat. The layout thoughtfully balances public and private areas, allowing for diverse activities, from social gatherings to solitary contemplation. This duality is crucial, as it supports a range of lifestyles while promoting a sense of belonging and connection among users.

The main structure serves as the centerpiece of the project, encompassing a two-story common space characterized by open layouts and transparent facades. Expansive glass walls invite natural light into the interior, bridging the gap between indoor comfort and outdoor beauty. This design choice not only brightens the interior but also dynamically connects residents with the changing landscape outside, reinforcing the notion that architecture should actively engage with its environment.

Integral to the project are the private accommodations, designed as individual cabins or “poet huts.” These units are elevated on stilts, which enables residents to take full advantage of the panoramic views offered by the landscape. This elevation fosters a sense of sanctuary while also enhancing vibrations between the built environment and nature below. Every hut encourages introspection, creating spaces that are conducive to creativity and contemplation.

The pathways connecting various elements of the project are another important feature. Wooden decking meanders through the site, providing a seamless transition between spaces while promoting movement and exploration. The design inculcates a flow that invites users to wander and interact with their surroundings, effectively blurring the boundary between constructed and natural environments. These pathways are not merely functional; they inspire curiosity and foster connections between different parts of the community, embodying the project’s spirit of interconnectedness.

The incorporation of unique design elements, such as multifunctional spaces and varying heights among structures, lends the project a dynamic character. This vertical variation creates visual interest and alters user experiences as they navigate through the site. Each area presents different perspectives, encouraging exploration and interaction despite changes in altitude. Furthermore, the use of eco-friendly materials not only minimizes the ecological footprint of the project but also aligns with contemporary architectural values centered around sustainability. Wood, metal, and glass are employed as primary materials, each chosen for their aesthetic and functional qualities. Wood provides warmth and comfort, metal contributes structural integrity, while glass enhances the connection to the outside.

Overall, "To the Limit" is a reflective and immersive architectural project that prioritizes user engagement with both nature and community. Its thoughtful design encourages a genuine dialogue between inhabitants and their environment, promoting a lifestyle that embraces sensory experiences. This project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture, where sustainability and connection are paramount. To gain a deeper understanding of this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas, which together convey the comprehensive vision and execution of "To the Limit."
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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