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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Sustainable Mountain Residence

Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light in a Sustainable Mountain Residence
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles to enhance thermal efficiency and blending natural light with open spaces, the residence serves as a sustainable retreat in a mountainous landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved insulation and reduced carbon footprint.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural strength while allowing for expansive interior spaces.
04
Strategically positioned windows maximize natural light and minimize heat loss.
05
Landscape integration enhances aesthetic appeal and promotes biodiversity in the surrounding area.

## Project Overview

Situated in a context that values natural surroundings, the residence was designed with a focus on the occupants’ comfort and lifestyle. The architectural intent is to create a harmonious relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces while promoting sustainable living practices. The layout and design prioritize natural light and spatial efficiency, contributing to a contemporary residential experience.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction

The open-plan layout fosters fluid movement between living areas, encouraging social interaction while preserving private retreats. Central to the design is a spacious living area that connects with the outdoors, enhanced by expansive glass openings that facilitate visual and physical connectivity. The kitchen, strategically positioned, serves as an accessible hub, ensuring functionality without compromising flow. Private quarters, including bedrooms and bathrooms, are arranged to maximize privacy while framing views of the landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The project emphasizes the use of natural and sustainable materials, reinforcing modern architectural standards. Reinforced concrete provides structural durability, while large glass panels enhance transparency and ensure ample daylight. Timber is integrated into the roofing to create warmth, balancing aesthetics with environmental considerations. The flooring features a blend of stone and aggregate, delivering both durability and a natural quality. Additionally, metal screens offer external shading and privacy, allowing for controlled light entry and contributing to the home's overall energy efficiency.

### Lighting Strategy and Energy Efficiency

An intricately designed lighting strategy enhances the atmosphere throughout the day, showcasing a dynamic interplay of light and shadow. During the morning, natural light brightens the breakfast area and transition spaces, promoting an uplifting start to daily activities. The arrangement allows for controlled light angles at midday, ensuring comfortable illumination while preventing overheating. In the evening, soft shadows create a cozy ambiance, celebrating the use of natural materials and further emphasizing the residence’s link to its environment. Solar technologies have been incorporated as part of a comprehensive approach to energy consumption, emphasizing the project's commitment to sustainability.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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