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Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Materials in a Nest-Inspired Urban Retreat

Author:
Daniele Santini
Charred Wooden Shingles and Recycled Materials in a Nest-Inspired Urban Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and recycled materials, this urban dwelling embodies a nest-like design that separates public and private spaces, fostering an intimate environment for family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Nest-like design with a semi-permeable fence that allows light while maintaining privacy.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Features geothermal heating systems for energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
05
Calculated circulation paths connect distinct public and private zones seamlessly.

### Project Overview
DOMUS 23 is situated within an urban context that emphasizes the need for personal security and comfort. The design aims to create a dual environment that separates public and private functions, effectively responding to the demands of urban living. The building is organized into two distinct blocks—the Public Block, which accommodates communal activities, and the Private Block, dedicated to personal living spaces—facilitated by strategically planned circulation paths.

### Spatial Organization
The internal layout enhances user experience by fostering interactions among residents while maintaining privacy. Shared spaces are logically arranged, allowing for clear distinctions between public and private areas. An internal staircase provides seamless access between the two blocks, promoting connectivity throughout the residence.

### Materiality and Sustainability
DOMUS 23 prioritizes sustainable practices through the selection of recycled and eco-friendly materials. The use of wood and low-impact natural materials is complemented by an "off-set" construction method that employs standardized components for increased efficiency. Thermal insulation strategies incorporate multiple layers, including dry screed and acoustic insulation, optimizing the building's energy performance. Geothermal heat pumps facilitate efficient heating and cooling, while thoughtfully designed windows balance natural ventilation and daylighting with thermal control.

The exterior is defined by a semi-permeable fence, constructed from thin vertical elements that maintain environmental light while ensuring privacy. The overall aesthetic features a combination of white surfaces and contrasting materials, creating a modern yet harmonious presence within its natural surroundings.

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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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Chair
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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