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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Envelop a Community of Timber Residences

Authors:
Marco Pagliara, Mario Benedict
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Envelop a Community of Timber Residences

Project in-detail

Embraced by a landscape of serenity, the design uniquely combines charred wooden shingles with expansive glass elements to create a vibrant community of timber residences that prioritize natural light and ecological harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances weather resistance while creating a visually appealing texture.
02
A bent A-frame design allows for optimal structural strength and accommodates varied interior spaces.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide efficient insulation, contributing to energy performance.
04
The layout emphasizes communal interaction with shared outdoor spaces designed for gatherings.
05
Natural light is maximized through strategically positioned glass elements that connect residents to the landscape.
The Tùn Community Houses project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture, intricately woven into the landscape of Iceland near Lake Mývatn. This design encapsulates the essence of communal living, fostering interactions while providing comfortable residential spaces. The project represents a modern interpretation of traditional Icelandic settlement patterns, focusing on harmony with nature and community engagement.

At its core, the Tùn project functions as a living environment that promotes a sense of belonging among its residents. The design comprises multiple residential units arranged in a village-like formation, encouraging social connectivity and cooperation. Each house is equipped with communal areas that facilitate gatherings and activities, emphasizing the importance of shared experiences in daily life. Furthermore, the layout carefully considers site conditions, optimizing views of the surrounding landscape while ensuring that each space benefits from natural light.

A defining characteristic of the Tùn Community Houses is its use of materials that respect both the environment and the local architectural vernacular. The prominent use of wood throughout the interior creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, fostering comfort and connection to the landscape. This is complemented by concrete, which provides strength and durability for foundational and structural elements. Expansive glass sections are integrated to enhance the interaction between interior spaces and the outdoors, allowing residents to enjoy immersive views of the picturesque setting. Exterior metal cladding adds a contemporary touch while effectively mitigating maintenance needs and reflecting the natural scenery.

Unique design approaches are evident in the architectural language employed throughout the project. The varying roof pitches echo the underlying topography and historical architectural forms, crafting a dynamic silhouette against the landscape. These roof forms not only serve aesthetic purposes but also facilitate interesting interior spatial arrangements, reinforcing the concept of flexibility.

Circulation within the Tùn Community Houses has been carefully mapped out to encourage exploration and engagement among residents. Pathways linking individual units and communal areas promote movement and interaction, addressing both accessibility and functionality. This design consideration aligns with the project’s overarching goal of fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

Sustainability is a significant focus of the Tùn project, aligning with contemporary architectural ideals. Natural systems for water management and waste recycling are integrated into the design, showcasing a commitment to minimizing ecological impact. This approach not only enhances the sustainability of the project but also encourages residents to engage with environmentally responsible practices.

The Tùn Community Houses stand as a model for future architectural endeavors, reflecting a commitment to environmental sensitivity and community-oriented design. The integration of thoughtful architecture with the natural landscape illustrates that modern communal living can be both functional and beautiful. For those interested in delving deeper into the unique aspects of this project, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide comprehensive insights into this effective blending of innovation and ecology.
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Enter an open architecture
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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