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Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Blend in Modern Sustainable Residence

Authors:
Kornél Koncz, Ramóna Panna Halász, Peter Zilahi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Reinforced Concrete Blend in Modern Sustainable Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and reinforced concrete, this residence integrates sustainable practices with a flexible layout that emphasizes harmony with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural efficiency and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes natural light while maintaining structural integrity.
04
Includes integrated rainwater harvesting systems, promoting resource conservation.
05
Designed with flexible spaces that adapt to various functions and activities over time.

### Overview

Located in a naturally rich setting, the project embodies a contemporary architectural response that reflects a desire to reconnect with nature amid urban complexities. The design aims to enhance mental and physical well-being, offering a new way of living that prioritizes simplicity and harmony with the environment. By integrating concepts of sustainability and functionality, it stands as a modern interpretation of the philosophical ideals of returning to one's roots.

### Architectural Form and Materiality

The structure features a rectangular, modular form supported by a prominent overhanging roof, creating a modernist silhouette that aligns with the landscape's contours. A diverse palette of materials has been thoughtfully selected to enhance both aesthetic and functional qualities. Reinforced concrete forms the foundation and core, while steel is employed for structural integrity in cladding applications. Generous use of glass panels fosters transparency and improves natural light flow, effectively linking the interior with the exterior environment. Cladding materials, including wood and customizable aluminum sheets, add warmth and visual interest while contributing to the building’s sustainability profile. Natural finishes, such as raw wood and earth-toned textures, emphasize its integration with the surrounding landscape.

### Sustainable Design Features

The project incorporates several eco-friendly features that enhance resource efficiency and promote sustainable living. Passive design strategies, such as natural ventilation and solar water heating, are integrated to optimize energy use. A rainwater harvesting system is included, along with innovative plumbing solutions to repurpose heated water, minimizing waste. The core-shelled concept allows for a durable core equipped with essential utilities, while the adaptable exterior can be constructed or repaired using local materials, reinforcing the building's resilience and sustainability. Additionally, the landscaping scheme is designed to minimize land disturbance and preserve existing flora, further demonstrating the commitment to environmental integration and community impact.

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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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