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Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Mediterranean Residence

Author:
Jeong su Hong
Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Ventilation in a Sustainable Mediterranean Residence

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and carefully designed thermal mass, this residence seamlessly integrates natural ventilation and an olive grove into a sustainable living space that fosters a connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles enhances durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to effective thermal insulation and strength without compromising on design.
03
An integrated olive grove connects the home to local agriculture and emphasizes biophilic design principles.
04
Natural ventilation strategies are implemented through strategically placed operable windows for enhanced indoor climate control.
05
The bent A-frame structure optimizes spatial flow and maximizes light entry, reinforcing the connection between interior and exterior spaces.
The Olive House represents an architectural endeavor that thoughtfully bridges the gap between the built environment and its natural surroundings. Situated within a warm Mediterranean climate, the project draws inspiration from the traditional olive tree, serving as a symbol of resilience, growth, and sustainability. The architecture of the Olive House embodies a concept known as “Outside In,” where the design strategy emphasizes the integration of outdoor elements into the living space, thereby creating a seamless transition between indoors and outdoors.

Functionally, the Olive House is designed to accommodate both communal and private activities. This duality enhances the living experience, offering spaces that encourage interaction among residents while also providing areas that promote tranquility and solitude. The layout is meticulously arranged to center around a main courtyard, which acts as the focal point of the design. The courtyard not only enhances the esthetic appeal of the house but also facilitates natural ventilation and sunlight throughout various rooms.

The architectural design is defined by its careful consideration of spatial flow, featuring open-plan layouts that promote ease of movement and accessibility. Large glass panels and strategically placed operable windows enhance this flow further, allowing ample natural light to penetrate the interior spaces while ensuring that residents remain connected to the surrounding landscape. This approach not only enriches the interior atmosphere but also supports the overarching sustainability goals of the project by reducing reliance on artificial lighting and mechanical heating or cooling systems.

Materiality plays a crucial role in the Olive House, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable construction practices. The project leverages a combination of concrete, glass, wood, and ceramic tiles. Concrete provides structural integrity and thermal mass, enabling the building to maintain a stable internal temperature. The use of glass allows for panoramic views of the landscape while fostering a sense of openness. Timber elements introduce warmth and a natural quality, making the interiors feel inviting and belonging to their environment. Ceramic tiles are used for flooring, merging practicality with aesthetic considerations.

Unique design approaches define the Olive House and set it apart from conventional residential projects. One noteworthy aspect is the integration of green elements directly into the architectural framework, including the incorporation of olive trees within the design. This not only beautifies the environment but also reinforces biophilia, encouraging inhabitants to appreciate and engage with nature regularly. The project’s strategy of utilizing natural ventilation through the careful placement of operable windows is another key innovation, allowing for an organic flow of fresh air while minimizing energy consumption.

Additionally, light plays an important role in the Olive House’s design. The thoughtful placement of skylights and large windows creates dynamic lighting conditions that evolve throughout the day, in turn influencing the living experience. The interplay between light and shadow highlights the intricate architectural elements and enhances the overall ambiance of the home.

Overall, the Olive House is a well-designed architectural project that encourages a sustainable lifestyle while promoting a conscious engagement with the surrounding environment. Its design thoughtfully encompasses cultural significance through the lens of modern architectural practices, ultimately presenting a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and ecological awareness. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural details, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural ideas, an exploration of the project presentation is highly recommended.
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Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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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