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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Harmonious Residential Environment

Author:
Ewa Markowska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Harmonious Residential Environment

Project in-detail

Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glass elements, this residential development seamlessly integrates natural light and communal spaces, facilitating both individual comfort and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Emphasis on charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing fire resistance.
02
Integration of cross-laminated timber panels offers structural stability and aesthetic warmth.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light penetration throughout living spaces.
04
Community gathering areas are strategically placed to encourage social interactions among residents.
05
Natural landscaping is incorporated to create seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor environments.
Saint Barbara's House is an architectural project located in Wolow, Poland, designed to provide an adaptable living environment that emphasizes community interaction, comfort, and connection with nature. The project's layout encompasses both private and communal spaces that encourage social engagement among residents. The design facilitates a balance between functionality and aesthetic appeal, ensuring the environment is conducive to a higher quality of life.

Innovative Space Utilization
The project stands out through its thoughtful integration of transitional spaces. These areas act as multi-functional venues that serve both private and shared purposes, allowing flexibility in how the house can be used. The design incorporates wide doorways and accessible arrangements, making the environment welcoming for individuals of varying abilities. The use of large glass windows throughout the structure enhances natural light flow and visual connectivity with the surrounding landscape, fostering a sense of openness.

Attention to Material Selection
The material choices in Saint Barbara's House significantly contribute to its architectural identity. The use of wood in structural elements provides warmth and a natural feel, while concrete ensures durability and robustness in critical areas. Glass not only serves practical purposes but also enhances the visual dialogue between the building and its environment. Additionally, ceramic tiles in functional spaces emphasize low maintenance and cleanliness, demonstrating a practical approach to interior design. Steel is utilized for structural reinforcements, integrating modernity and strength into the overall design.

Focus on Community and Wellness
This project emphasizes community and well-being through its strategic design that promotes social interaction. Open communal areas encourage residents to gather and share experiences, fostering connections within their living space. The integration of nature is a deliberate design element, with outdoor spaces and gardens that invite residents to engage with their environment. This commitment to holistic health is reflected in the architectural approach, which harmonizes the needs of individual privacy with the benefits of communal living.

For a more detailed understanding of the design and its various elements, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, viewers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
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
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
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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