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Charred Wooden Shingles and Porous Concrete Nestled in Volcanic Terrain for Eco-Friendly Guest Accommodation

Authors:
Karyna Shtankova, Maksym Bobosh, Oleksandr Khomechko
Charred Wooden Shingles and Porous Concrete Nestled in Volcanic Terrain for Eco-Friendly Guest Accommodation

Project in-detail

Nestled within a dynamic volcanic landscape, the innovative use of charred wooden shingles and porous concrete creates a sustainable retreat that offers guests a unique connection to nature while ensuring comfort and functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide enhanced fire resistance while blending with the rugged volcanic surroundings.
02
Porous concrete elements facilitate natural drainage and promote sustainable water management.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for structural support, adding warmth and reducing carbon footprint.
04
A bent A-frame design optimizes interior space while minimizing the visual impact on the landscape.
05
Integrated green roofs enhance biodiversity and contribute to the overall sustainability of the guest house.
The architectural project known as "Guest House Volcano" exemplifies a thoughtful integration of design with its surrounding volcanic landscape, resulting in a structure that serves both as a place of refuge and an experience in harmony with nature. This project highlights a unique approach to modular architecture, making it a compelling study in functional design that adapts gracefully to its environment.

The design of the guest house functions as a multi-faceted accommodation tailored for tourists seeking proximity to the natural beauty surrounding a volcano. It addresses both individual privacy needs and community interaction, featuring a central main house that houses shared amenities and lodging units branching out in a circular formation. This layout encourages social engagement while respecting the desire for solitude, making it suitable for various visitor types. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces facilitates movement and interaction, reinforcing the concept of community within a natural context.

One key aspect of the project is its modular design, which allows for flexibility in both construction and future modifications. Each module is equipped to function independently, providing essential facilities while being interconnected enough to promote community. This structure allows the guest house to grow or evolve over time, adapting to changing user needs without significant disruption to the existing environment or facilities.

In addition to its functional layout, "Guest House Volcano" emphasizes sustainability through various design strategies. The incorporation of energy-efficient systems, such as ground-source heat pumps, minimizes reliance on traditional energy sources, aligning with contemporary practices in eco-friendly architecture. This commitment to sustainability is further illustrated by the use of green roofs that facilitate water drainage and promote biodiversity. Rainwater harvesting systems are likely integrated into the design, highlighting a proactive approach to water conservation, which complements the overall environmental responsibility of the architecture.

The choice of materials contributes significantly to the project's integrity and character. Porous concrete is employed for its thermal properties and lightweight nature, which aids in insulation while fitting into the rugged terrain. Wood is utilized in several structural elements, providing a connection to the natural surroundings and creating an inviting atmosphere within the guest house. Triple-glazed windows are integrated into the design to enhance energy efficiency and ensure the views of the stunning landscape are not compromised. The use of lime-sand covering adds durability and breathability to the enclosed spaces, reinforcing the commitment to using natural materials.

Unique design approaches are apparent in the way the architecture harmonizes with the volcanic terrain. Rather than imposing a rigid structure onto the land, the design absorbs the natural contours, establishing a respectful dialogue between the built and natural environments. This thoughtful interaction exemplifies the principle of biomimicry, which aims to mirror nature's strategies and systems in architectural design. The project reflects an understanding of geography and a respect for local context, creating a built form that is not merely situated on the land but becomes part of it.

Furthermore, the integration of infrastructural utilities—electrification, heating, water supply, and drainage systems—is handled in a manner that supports seamless functionality without detracting from the aesthetic appeal. These systems are cleverly woven into the architecture, maintaining a sleek visual appearance while ensuring all technical needs are met.

In summary, the "Guest House Volcano" project represents a harmonious blend of architecture and nature, resulting in a functional and aesthetically pleasing design. It demonstrates how modern architectural practices can be applied to create sustainable and adaptive structures that enhance user experience while respecting and integrating with the surrounding environment. Readers interested in understanding the finer details of this project are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs presented in more depth. This investigation will provide deeper insights into the innovative architectural ideas that underpin this thoughtfully designed 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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