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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Blend in a Sustainable Residential Design

Authors:
Magdalena Opalińska, Tomasz Kamiński, Wiktor Ignatjew-zielonka
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Blend in a Sustainable Residential Design

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and natural stone harmonize with the landscape in a design that prioritizes passive ventilation and communal living, creating a sustainable residence in Portugal.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to rapid construction and structural stability.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and facilitates ventilation.
04
Strategically placed landscaping integrates the residence with its natural surroundings.
05
Multi-use communal spaces foster social interaction among residents.
The Olive House is a contemporary architectural project located in Portugal, designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape while reflecting local building traditions. It emphasizes sustainability and functionality, serving as a residence that balances private and communal spaces. The architectural design focuses on optimizing natural ventilation and light while utilizing locally sourced materials.

Design Intent and Structure

The Olive House represents a cohesive understanding of place and context. Its layout is strategically oriented to maximize northern views and harness prevailing winds for natural air circulation. The building is designed around principles of thermal regulation, showcasing a strong connection between indoor environments and the external landscape. The core function of the residence encompasses private living areas along with communal spaces that promote social interaction among family and guests.

The design includes well-defined spaces, with bedrooms situated for privacy and a communal dining area that encourages gathering. The communal area is the focal point of the home, featuring flexible seating arrangements that accommodate various social scenarios. Key components include:

- Bedrooms: Each designed to capture natural light and provide tranquility.
- Multipurpose Room: Central to the house, it functions as both a dining space and entertainment area.
- Kitchenette: Designed for efficiency, it encourages interaction while facilitating cooking and dining.

Innovative Design Elements

The architectural identity of the Olive House is marked by several innovative design choices that distinguish it from similar projects. The combination of stone walls and traditional ceramic tiles not only reflects local aesthetics but also contributes to effective thermal performance. The use of wood for structural elements aligns with sustainable practices and enhances interior warmth.

The incorporation of large windows throughout the home establishes a seamless transition between interior spaces and the outdoor environment, ensuring that every room benefits from natural light. Additionally, the design addresses local climatic conditions with a breathable membrane incorporated into the roofing system, facilitating moisture management and enhancing durability.

Spatial Relationships and Flow

The spatial organization of the Olive House promotes connectivity while maintaining a sense of privacy. Key architectural features include:

- Entrance Hall: Serves as a transitional area that provides views toward communal spaces and outdoor gardens.
- Architectural Sections: These present an understanding of how light, space, and ventilation interact, showcasing the building’s orientation.
- Landscaping: Carefully planned greenery complements the architectural design, blurring the lines between the built environment and nature.

For additional information about the Olive House, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, we invite you to explore the project's presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide further insights into the thought processes and artistic considerations that shaped this residential project.
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MICROHOME
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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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