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Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Retreat

Author:
María Fernanda Díaz Mandujano
Charred Wooden Shingles and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing to merge with the landscape, the design creates a peaceful retreat that invites contemplation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sustainable charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural stability and thermal performance.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Integrated vegetation on the roof promotes biodiversity and improves insulation.
05
Flexible interior spaces facilitate multifunctional use for guests and gatherings.

# SKILA Architectural Project Overview

## Context and Intent
Located amidst hilly terrain characterized by layered rock formations and sweeping views of distant mountains and water bodies, this project seeks to create a harmonious relationship with its natural and cultural surroundings. By integrating architectural elements that reflect both historical and environmental contexts, the design enables an experience that fosters reflection and connection with the landscape. This approach emphasizes the concept of architecture as a respectful intervention that accommodates human activities while encouraging a contemplative engagement with the environment.

## Spatial Strategy and Functionality
The site plan includes several functional areas, such as a hotel, café and bar, changing facilities, spa area, and car park, designed to facilitate both communal and private experiences. The arrangement allows for easy circulation while ensuring that different spaces interact meaningfully with the landscaped elements. Interior spaces prioritize openness and fluidity, with carefully placed windows that connect occupants to the surrounding nature. A central gathering area features a large circular table and modular seating, enhanced by ambient lighting and thoughtful design details.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
The architectural forms are crafted to echo natural stratifications, employing materials that promote sustainability and enhance the overall design vision. Key materials include concrete for structural elements, which ensures durability and integration with the earth, and glass, which provides transparency and panoramic views. Sustainable timber is utilized for interior furnishings, contributing warmth while maintaining ecological integrity. Additionally, the use of expanded polystyrene foam blocks for insulation supports energy efficiency. The roof design incorporates vegetation, which not only serves aesthetic purposes but also aids in water management, further aligning with the project’s sustainability objectives.

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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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