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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Brick Creating Harmony Within Nature's Embrace

Authors:
Luis Alarcon ortiz, Dennis Cumbal portilla, Maria belen Cumbal portilla
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Brick Creating Harmony Within Nature's Embrace

Project in-detail

Designed with charred wooden shingles and recycled brick, the structure seamlessly integrates into its natural landscape while serving as a communal space that fosters connection and tranquility among its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates recycled brick to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that provides structural stability and maximizes interior space.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and improved thermal performance.
05
Designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, enhancing the sense of tranquility.
The project is an architectural endeavor titled "release to immerse," carefully designed to foster a harmonious relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings. Situated in an area rich with greenery and diverse landscapes, this project emphasizes the experience of being immersed in nature, effectively blending architectural form with ecological sensitivity. The design embodies a philosophy that seeks to promote tranquility, interaction, and a sense of belonging among its occupants.

Functionally, the project serves as both a residence and communal space, facilitating various activities while encouraging occupants to engage with nature. Key areas include spacious living quarters, communal dining spaces, and intimate nooks designed for reflection and social interaction. Each section of the architecture is thoughtfully laid out to maximize natural light, ventilation, and the integration of outdoor views, ensuring a constant connection to the lush environment outside.

One of the most notable aspects of the design is its attention to materiality. The project utilizes a selection of sustainable materials, with recycled brick forming the primary external and internal surfaces. This choice not only supports ecological responsibility but also adds a tactile quality to the structure. The use of wood planks enriches the interior, providing warmth and a natural aesthetic that dialogues respectfully with the surrounding context. Additionally, strategically placed stone elements serve to ground the design in its landscape, while extensive glass installations enable abundant natural light to permeate the space, further blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor environments.

The architectural approach employed in this project is particularly unique due to its focus on passive design strategies. By maximizing the building's orientation and employing features like high ceilings and open floor plans, the design minimizes reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. Instead, it capitalizes on the natural elements of sunlight and wind to create a comfortable living environment throughout the year. This commitment to sustainability resonates with modern architectural trends, reflecting a growing awareness of environmental considerations in the design process.

The layout of the project is carefully conceived to support fluid movement throughout the spaces. Circulation paths are designed to be intuitive, promoting natural interaction among occupants while allowing for privacy where needed. The architectural sections and plans detail a series of interconnected spaces that encourage community engagement, creating a welcoming atmosphere for both residents and visitors.

In its essence, "release to immerse" represents a thoughtful exploration of how architecture can enhance the human experience while remaining grounded in ecological awareness. It reflects a shift toward more integrative design approaches, prioritizing sustainability, community interaction, and a profound respect for nature.

For those interested in a deeper exploration of the project, reviewing the architectural plans and sections will provide valuable insights into the intricacies of the design. These elements reveal how architectural ideas have been realized in a manner that encourages reflection on the relationship between the built environment and the natural world. Exploring this project further will highlight its nuanced approach, illustrating how architecture can function not just as a physical structure, but as a catalyst for connection and immersion in our environment.
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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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