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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Forge a Harmony of Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Authors:
Pak Ka Wong, Ck, cheuk kin Kong, Wesley Fung, Hoi Yan Ma
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Stone Forge a Harmony of Indoor and Outdoor Spaces

Project in-detail

Crafted from charred wooden shingles and local stone, the design creates a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor experiences, fostering community connection within a multifaceted gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer structural strength and thermal efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space and height while maintaining visual harmony with the landscape.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems promote sustainability and resource efficiency.
05
Sensory pathways connect indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging user engagement with the natural environment.
The architectural project titled "PUPA" encapsulates the theme of transformation and evolution, drawing inspiration from the metamorphosis of insects, particularly the pupal stage. This concept serves as a guiding principle throughout the project, influencing its overall form, functionality, and relationship with the surrounding environment. Nestled within a natural landscape, PUPA strives to create an intimate connection between the architecture and its context, inviting occupants to engage with both the building and the nature that envelops it.

At its core, the project embodies a thoughtful response to its geographical location, seamlessly integrating with the local flora while addressing the needs of its users. The architectural design focuses on fostering community interactions by providing multifunctional spaces that encourage collaboration and socialization. The arrangement of various zones—communal dining areas, private rooms, and shared lounges—facilitates an organic flow of movement, allowing users to navigate the space effortlessly and engage with one another.

The design solution employs a variety of materials that speak to sustainability and local context. The use of local stone provides durability and a sense of permanence, while timber is chosen for its natural warmth and aesthetic appeal. Large expanses of glass not only enhance the building’s visual connection to the outside but also allow ample natural light to permeate the interior, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the day. This careful selection of materials underpins the project’s overall design philosophy, emphasizing an ecological approach and a commitment to enhancing the natural environment.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of PUPA is its adaptive design strategy. The interior layout is intentionally flexible, with open-plan concepts that can be reconfigured as the needs of the occupants evolve. This adaptability is vital in contemporary architecture, where spaces must cater to a range of activities and social dynamics. Users can easily reshape areas for various communal activities or intimate gatherings, allowing for a dynamic interaction with the architecture.

In addition to adaptability, PUPA incorporates elements of sustainable design that benefit both the building and its occupants. Passive solar strategies are employed to optimize natural light and thermal efficiency, greatly reducing the reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. Furthermore, rainwater harvesting systems have been integrated, allowing the building to capture and utilize local water resources effectively. Natural ventilation is thoughtfully considered in the design, ensuring that airflow is maximized, which contributes to a healthier indoor environment. These sustainable features highlight a commitment to environmentally responsible architectural practices.

The project also excels in stimulating the sensory experiences of its users. Thoughtfully placed pathways weave through the site, fostering a profound connection to the surrounding landscape. The integration of greenery, water features, and the natural sounds of the environment enhance the immersive experience, exemplifying architecture that not only shelters but enriches the lives of those who interact with it.

PUPA stands out as a holistic architectural endeavor that prioritizes the symbiotic relationship between human activity and the natural world. It encourages occupants to reflect on their growth and evolution while fostering a sense of community within its spaces. The emphasis on sustainable materials, flexible configurations, and sensory richness exemplifies a modern design approach that is relevant and applicable to today's architectural discourse.

For those interested in understanding the finer details of this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs, we encourage an exploration of the project presentation to gather deeper insights into its unique architectural ideas and how they manifest within this transformative and thoughtful space.
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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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