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Charred Wooden Shingles and Poured Concrete Harmonize in a Fluid Residential Space

Author:
Dakota Walters
Charred Wooden Shingles and Poured Concrete Harmonize in a Fluid Residential Space

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cast-in-place concrete, the residence blurs the boundaries between indoor living and natural settings, providing a flexible space that adapts to both personal and communal functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features large glass openings to maximize natural light and integrate indoor and outdoor spaces.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to optimize spatial efficiency and visual connection to the landscape.
05
Adapts flexible spaces for various functions, fostering communal and private interactions.

Cloud House is an innovative architectural project that explores the integration of residential living with natural landscapes and virtual environments. This design redefines domestic spaces by emphasizing open layouts, substantial interaction with nature, and the incorporation of advanced digital technologies. The architectural framework creates a sense of fluidity, blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living, while facilitating a modern lifestyle that values connectivity with both the environment and digital platforms.

Unique Design Approaches and Elements

One of the defining aspects of Cloud House is its unique approach to spatial organization. The design features flexible spaces that can be adapted for various functions, catering to needs for communal gathering as well as private retreat. The incorporation of a meeting room equipped with virtual reality technology allows occupants to have immersive interactions while residing in a home environment. Large glass openings enable unobstructed views and natural ventilation, creating a seamless transition between the interior and the surrounding landscape.

The structural design employs cast-in-place concrete for primary elements, ensuring durability and a sense of permanence. Additionally, marble countertops provide aesthetic appeal and functionality in kitchen areas, while wooden details throughout the home add warmth and texture. Vertical wood panels serve dual purposes as cabinetry and decorative features, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability through the use of locally sourced materials.

Integration with Nature

Cloud House emphasizes its relationship with the surrounding ecosystem, strategically located amidst an island frame defined by a pond and rich vegetation. This environment not only enhances the visual experience but also promotes a sense of tranquility. The outdoor areas are designed to engage residents, with pathways connecting various spaces that encourage exploration and interaction with the natural world.

This architectural design prioritizes sustainability and ecological sensitivity, reflecting a broader trend in modern architecture that seeks to minimize environmental impact through thoughtful material selection and site integration. The choice of renewable resources ensures that the footprint remains low, while the open layout allows for maximum light and airflow.

In summary, Cloud House presents a compelling study in contemporary architecture that merges traditional concepts of home with innovative design solutions. The integration of digital interactions and extensive natural engagement represents a significant shift in how residential projects can function in harmony with their surroundings. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, and ideas surrounding Cloud House, it is encouraged to explore the detailed project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of its design philosophy and outcomes.

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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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