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Charred Wooden Shingles and Polycarbonate Panels in Sustainable Compact Living Spaces

Charred Wooden Shingles and Polycarbonate Panels in Sustainable Compact Living Spaces
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and transparent polycarbonate panels, the design promotes energy efficiency and sustainable living while maximizing interaction with the surrounding landscape in a compact, multifunctional home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features large polycarbonate panels that maximize natural light while providing insulation.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system to promote water conservation and self-sufficiency.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to improve aerodynamics and snow shedding in snowy climates.

### Project Overview
The Microhome design project comprises two models: Microhome Large and Microhome Small, aimed at addressing the demand for sustainable, efficient, and compact living environments. Located in a snowy landscape that underscores the need for functional shelter, these homes highlight innovative architectural solutions suitable for diverse climates and terrains, with an emphasis on minimal environmental impact.

### Spatial Efficiency and Adaptability
Both models feature modular designs tailored to maximize usability within a small footprint. Microhome Large, measuring 5.6 meters by 5.6 meters and reaching a height of 3.6 meters, includes designated areas for living, working, cooking, and bathing, all organized for compactness. The entrance area is multifunctional, incorporating storage solutions to ensure ease of access. The Microhome Small retains similar dimensions and layout, scaled for efficiency while featuring strategic placements for sleeping and communal spaces, facilitating mobility within its compact design.

### Material and Energy Considerations
The Microhome employs a combination of durable, eco-friendly materials such as Kingston (IS 1100-100) for cladding, transparent polycarbonate panels for enhanced lighting, and wooden shingles that provide insulation. Both models integrate renewable energy systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, reinforcing their sustainability. The interiors reflect a modern aesthetic with warm wood finishes and practical furniture layouts, while large windows and sliding doors promote a strong connection to the surrounding environment, fostering an inviting living experience.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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