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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Shaping Flexible Learning Environments

Author:
Flavia Vaccher
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Light Shaping Flexible Learning Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and extensive glazing, the design fosters an immersive learning environment that seamlessly integrates indoor and outdoor spaces while promoting sustainability in educational architecture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates extensive glazing to maximize natural light and improve indoor air quality.
03
Features adaptable classroom layouts that support various teaching methodologies.
04
Integrates an outdoor classroom connected to landscaped gardens for experiential learning.
05
Employs local timber to reduce the carbon footprint and promote sustainability.

## Project Overview

The architectural design for a contemporary educational institution aims to create a learning environment that fosters engagement and interaction among students, educators, and the community. Located in a setting that encourages connectivity with its surroundings, the design prioritizes openness and sustainability, integrating educational spaces with communal areas to enhance the sense of belonging. Through a focus on flexibility and environmental mindfulness, the project sets a benchmark for future educational facilities.

## Spatial Composition

The building features a thoughtful layout characterized by a pitched wooden roof that aligns with the topography of the site, creating a cohesive visual relationship with the natural landscape. Classrooms are arranged around a central courtyard that permits ample natural light, facilitating a welcoming atmosphere. This configuration supports diverse educational activities, promoting both group learning and individual study. Key interior spaces include adaptable classrooms with flexible layouts, specialized library zones for varied learning modalities, and multipurpose areas designed to accommodate community events.

### Outdoor Learning Environments

The design strategically incorporates outdoor areas that extend the learning experience beyond traditional classrooms. Landscaped gardens and courtyards provide opportunities for outdoor education and recreation, reinforcing the connection between students and their environment. These spaces foster interaction among the school community and local residents, promoting an inclusive atmosphere where education and civic life intersect.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Locally sourced timber serves as a primary element, enhancing warmth and minimizing the building's carbon footprint. High-performance glass is utilized extensively to maximize natural light, while concrete and steel provide structural integrity. The integration of photovoltaic panels supports energy efficiency and reduces operational costs. This material palette not only prioritizes ecological responsibility but also contributes to an inviting atmosphere conducive to learning and social engagement.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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