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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Wood Create Sustainable Living in California

Author:
Albert Boehm
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reclaimed Wood Create Sustainable Living in California

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and reclaimed wood, the residence harmoniously integrates sustainable materials into its design while maximizing natural light and connectivity to the surrounding landscape, creating a functional family home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates reclaimed wood elements to reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize structural stability and aesthetics.
04
Employs high-performance glass to maximize daylight while minimizing energy loss.
05
Integrates a green roofing system that supports local biodiversity and rainwater management.

The architectural design project titled "Harmonious Nest" is a residential structure thoughtfully positioned in a context that underscores its relationship with the surrounding environment. This project aims to create a seamless connection between indoor living spaces and the natural landscape, fostering an atmosphere of tranquility and sustainability. The design integrates key elements that address functional living with an emphasis on energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

Sustainability and Materiality
One of the defining characteristics of "Harmonious Nest" is its focus on sustainable design practices. The project employs a selection of materials such as reclaimed wood, local stone, and high-performance glass. Reclaimed wood serves not only as a sustainable material choice but also contributes warmth and texture to the interior and exterior aesthetics. Local stone is utilized as a foundational element, promoting regional identity and providing structural integrity. High-performance glass is strategically incorporated to facilitate natural light penetration while ensuring thermal efficiency.

The design also incorporates green roof systems, which play a vital role in stormwater management and environmental integration. This innovative approach not only enhances insulation but also promotes local biodiversity, connecting the built environment with its natural counterparts. The combination of these materials creates an architectural language that is contemporary yet deeply rooted in its geographical context.

Spatial Arrangement and Functionality
The layout of "Harmonious Nest" adopts an open-plan philosophy, emphasizing flexibility and adaptability in living spaces. Key communal areas, including the living room and kitchen, are oriented to maximize views of the surrounding landscape, fostering a sense of connection with nature. This spatial arrangement allows for natural light to flow through the home, reducing reliance on artificial lighting during daytime hours.

Private areas within the home are designed to offer comfort and privacy. Bedrooms are strategically positioned to take advantage of natural ventilation and daylight, enhancing the overall living experience. The integration of outdoor living spaces, such as terraces and gardens, extends the usable area of the home and reinforces the project's commitment to outdoor connectivity.

Unique Design Approaches
Harmonious Nest distinguishes itself through its biophilic design principles that emphasize a strong relationship between architecture and nature. By adopting organic forms that mimic natural structures, the project creates a visually appealing yet highly functional environment. The incorporation of extensive glazing allows occupants to experience the changing natural light throughout the day, adapting the interior atmosphere according to the time of year.

The project's orientation is strategically planned to harness passive solar gain, cooling the building in summer and maximizing sunlight in winter. Alongside these considerations, the integration of blue and green spaces promotes relaxation and encourages outdoor activities, enhancing the quality of life for residents.

For a deeper understanding of "Harmonious Nest," readers are encouraged to explore its architectural plans, sections, designs, and broader architectural ideas. These documents provide additional insights into the unique features and intelligent design strategies of this residential project.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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The Architect's Chair
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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