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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create an Eco-Friendly Retreat in a Balanced Landscape

Author:
Jofre Roca Calaf
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create an Eco-Friendly Retreat in a Balanced Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and sustainable concrete within a carefully designed open layout, the residence blends seamlessly with its lush surroundings while providing a functional space for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to efficient structural integrity and sustainability.
03
A bent A-frame design optimizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
04
Light wells integrated into the basement ensure daylight access throughout the lower level.
05
Native plant landscaping fosters local biodiversity and ecological harmony.

### Project Overview

Located within a serene natural landscape, Casa Floresta serves to connect the built environment with its surrounding ecosystem. The residence is designed to foster a harmonious relationship with nature through intentional design choices and material selection. Emphasizing sustainability, functionality, and aesthetic coherence, the project responds thoughtfully to its tranquil setting characterized by greenery and open spaces.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

Casa Floresta features a distinct spatial arrangement divided into three primary areas: the intimate area on the first floor, the social area on the ground floor, and the leisure area in the basement. This organization promotes both privacy and connectivity to the landscape. The open-plan layout on the ground floor encourages interaction and outdoor activities, while large overhangs provide protection from the elements. The first floor prioritizes quietness and retreat, incorporating a library and private spaces that are well-lit by natural light. The basement, designed for leisure, is illuminated through light wells, ensuring a link to the landscape despite its enclosed nature.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a key focus in the construction of Casa Floresta, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Sustainable concrete is utilized for its durability and thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency. Photovoltaic panels are strategically positioned to harness solar energy, furthering the building's ecological objectives. Extensive use of glass facilitates natural light while providing a visual connection to the exterior. Wood elements add warmth to the interiors, and natural stone is employed in both landscaping and structural applications to enhance durability and aesthetic appeal. The incorporation of native vegetation in the landscape promotes biodiversity and ecological balance, aligning with the overall design intent.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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