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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Contemporary Family Residence

Author:
Augusto Valdemar Teran Barreto
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Contemporary Family Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and designed to maximize natural light, this residence enhances communal living while honoring traditional cultural practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural stability while minimizing carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates natural light flow and promotes passive heating.
04
Includes dedicated spaces for cultural practices, such as a Musalla and Hamam, reflecting regional heritage.
05
Integrates advanced ventilation towers to enhance air circulation and reduce reliance on mechanical cooling.

### Overview
The House of the Future is situated in a context influenced by Arab architectural heritage, aiming to harmonize traditional practices with contemporary design and smart technology. The project focuses on creating a responsive living environment that addresses both the demands of modern lifestyles and the principles of environmental sustainability. Through this design approach, the intent is to foster cultural identity and promote interaction among its inhabitants.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality
The modular spatial arrangement prioritizes adaptability and interaction. The ground floor features an open-plan layout incorporating a dining area, living room, and kitchen, allowing for social engagement. Additionally, dedicated spaces such as a Musalla (prayer area) and Hamam (bath) have been integrated to support cultural practices. The first floor is designed for residential use, comprising multiple bedrooms and shared communal spaces, effectively balancing family privacy with connectivity. External terraces enhance the living experience by linking indoor and outdoor environments, serving both recreational and social purposes.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette reflects a commitment to local traditions while addressing sustainability. Concrete serves as the primary structural material, offering durability, while glass is utilized to promote transparency and solar efficiency. Wood is incorporated throughout the interior, providing warmth and a connection to natural elements. The design also features ceramic tiles with traditional patterns, enriching the cultural narrative. Furthermore, sustainability initiatives are evident through the integration of solar panels for energy generation, natural ventilation strategies to promote air circulation, and efficient water management systems that adhere to local climate considerations.

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

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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

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