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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Climate-Responsive Living Spaces

Author:
Zehavit Gold
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Create Climate-Responsive Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and natural stone, this residence balances sustainable materials with climate-responsive design to create an adaptable living space aligned with modern environmental needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates climate-responsive features through a unique bent A-frame design.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Employs traditional *mashrabiyah* elements to balance privacy with natural light.
05
Features native landscaping to minimize water usage and promote ecological harmony.

### Project Overview

Located in a climate-sensitive region, the House of the Future represents a novel approach to contemporary residential design that leverages artificial intelligence in its planning and execution. The initiative aims to integrate sustainability, functionality, and aesthetics in a manner that aligns with modern living standards while addressing the challenges posed by climate change. By fostering community interaction alongside personal privacy, the design responds to both social and environmental needs.

### Conceptual Framework

The architectural design prioritizes smart living by synthesizing advanced technological systems with traditional design principles. Innovative use of traditional elements, such as *mashrabiyah*, facilitates effective climate control while reinforcing cultural heritage. This integration of historical components within a modern context ensures a balance between past and present, fostering respect for local traditions while embracing contemporary needs.

### Material Selection

The material palette is essential in actualizing the project’s vision, focusing on durability and sustainability. Key materials include:

- **Natural Stone** for façades and flooring, enhancing longevity and environmental responsibility.
- **Wood**, utilized in structural components and cabinetry, providing warmth and sophistication.
- **Glass** elements, including floor-to-ceiling windows, maximizing natural light and spatial transparency.
- **Ceramics** in bathrooms and kitchens for elegance and ease of maintenance.
- **Composite Materials** to enhance both aesthetic appeal and structural performance.

This strategic choice of materials constructs a foundation of resilience while elevating the overall design through thoughtful aesthetic consideration.

### Design Elements and Features

The design features notable elements that enhance user experience and environmental integration:

- **Exterior Composition**: The façade incorporates natural stone and wood, complemented by decorative *mashrabiyah* patterns that amplify the home’s climate-responsive attributes.
- **Outdoor Spaces**: An extensive outdoor kitchen and landscaped poolside are designed to facilitate social gatherings and ease the transition between internal and external environments.
- **Interior Configuration**: An open-plan layout with high ceilings optimizes natural lighting. The use of stone and wood creates a tranquil ambiance, while intelligent spatial designs promote privacy without compromising light exposure.
- **Sustainability Measures**: The inclusion of renewable energy sources and advanced climate control systems underscores a comprehensive approach to energy efficiency.
- **Landscaping Practices**: The integration of native plants reduces irrigation needs and supports ecological balance, while designated garden areas enhance both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the property.

This multifaceted design illustrates an informed response to current and future residential needs, guided by sustainable practices.

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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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