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Charred Wooden Shingles and Quadcore Insulation in a Compact Eco-Friendly Dwelling

Author:
Jamie Willmer
Charred Wooden Shingles and Quadcore Insulation in a Compact Eco-Friendly Dwelling

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and high-performance Quadcore insulation, this compact dwelling exemplifies sustainable living by seamlessly integrating with its natural landscape while providing essential residential functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates Quadcore insulated panels for superior energy efficiency.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Utilizes a bent A-frame design to optimize structural integrity and space.
04
Designed for minimal site disruption, preserving the natural landscape.
05
Includes a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.

**Overview**

The "Seldom Seen" project is a micro-home designed for a mountainous landscape, emphasizing a minimalist approach to living that prioritizes ecological sustainability. The design facilitates a balance between individual habitation and the surrounding wilderness, creating a dwelling that invites engagement with nature while providing essential comfort and functionality. The home serves as a prototype for modern ecological residences, integrating innovative technologies and materials to enhance livability while minimizing environmental impact.

**Design and Spatial Strategy**

The architectural form of the micro-home features an asymmetrical structure with a sloped roof, carefully designed to endure the climatic challenges of the region. Key visual elements include a facade made of Kingspan Quadcore LCE insulated panels paired with timber cladding, ensuring durability while complementing the natural surroundings. The layout is adaptable, with multifunctional spaces that allow for daily activities such as cooking, relaxing, and working to occur within a compact area. Smart storage solutions further optimize the internal configuration, reducing clutter and enhancing usability.

**Sustainability and Materiality**

Seldom Seen incorporates advanced sustainable technologies, including solar panels for energy independence and a rainwater harvesting system to use natural resources efficiently. The material selection emphasizes sustainability; Kingspan Quadcore LCE panels enhance thermal performance, while certified timber cladding adds both warmth and ecological integrity. Expansive windows constructed with reinforced glass provide energy efficiency and panoramic views, contributing to an immersive living experience. The use of eco-friendly underfloor heating systems underscores the commitment to energy-efficient design throughout the home.

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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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