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Charred Wooden Shingles and Precast Concrete Define a Versatile Family Residence

Authors:
Graziella Corti, Domenico Conca, Gianpiero Maria Latorre, Marina Agatiello
Charred Wooden Shingles and Precast Concrete Define a Versatile Family Residence

Project in-detail

With an exterior clad in charred wooden shingles and a robust structure of precast concrete, this residence seamlessly blends contemporary design with sustainability to create a functional family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Exterior clad in charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize natural light and views.
04
Features a flexible room layout adaptable to family needs.
05
Incorporates solar panels for energy efficiency and sustainability.

## Overview

The residence is situated in a contemporary urban context, designed to respond to the demands of modern living through thoughtful spatial organization and material selection. It emphasizes a balance between private and communal areas, facilitating interaction among residents while preserving individual privacy. The design integrates indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing the overall living experience.

## Spatial Arrangement

The layout efficiently delineates private and communal zones, utilizing an open-plan design in the kitchen, dining, and living areas. Flexible spaces are incorporated to accommodate varying functions, such as playrooms or guest accommodations, which adapt to the residents' needs. Key features include:

- **Double-Height Spaces**: These areas contribute to a sense of openness and visual interest, particularly in the inner courtyard.

- **Separate Entrances**: Distinct entries for guests and service personnel enhance privacy, enabling the household to host visitors without compromising daily routines.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The chosen material palette reflects a commitment to aesthetics and sustainability:

- **Precast Concrete**: Offers structural efficiency and sustainability, facilitating rapid construction while enhancing durability.

- **Natural Stone and Glass**: These materials provide elegance and a connection to the environment, with large glass elements promoting natural light and energy efficiency.

- **Wood Finishes and PVC**: Wood introduces warmth to interior spaces, while PVC enhances weather resistance.

Sustainable practices are evident in the eco-friendly materials and construction techniques employed. The precast method minimizes waste and site disturbance, and the integration of solar panels underscores a dedication to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

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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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