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Charred Wooden Shingles and Siltstone Crafting a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Sergio Esquinca, Eduardo Robles, Adrian Salinas
Charred Wooden Shingles and Siltstone Crafting a Sustainable Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally sourced siltstone, the retreat harmonizes with its forest surroundings while providing a dedicated space for wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced siltstone for thermal efficiency.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and durability.
03
Incorporates passive ventilation systems for natural airflow.
04
Includes rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water use.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to enhance stability and aesthetics.
Casa de Terra is an architectural project located in Vale de Moses, designed as a retreat for yoga and community interaction. The structure reflects a commitment to ecological harmony, showcasing sustainable architecture while promoting health and wellness within a serene natural environment. The design thoughtfully integrates with the landscape, employing materials and strategies that reduce environmental impact.

Unique Design Approaches and Materials

A key feature of Casa de Terra is its organic form, which embraces the natural contours of the site. This design principle not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also facilitates natural ventilation and daylighting, optimizing energy efficiency. The use of local timber for structural components demonstrates a clear intention to minimize transportation emissions and support the regional economy. Additionally, the incorporation of silt stone offers thermal mass, allowing the building to maintain stable indoor temperatures, reducing reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.

Rainwater harvesting systems illustrate the project's approach to water management, directing collected rainwater for reuse in irrigation and sanitation. The design includes green roofs and walls, promoting biodiversity and enhancing insulation while integrating plant life into the building’s fabric. Pergolas strategically placed around communal spaces provide shade and define outdoor areas, further bridging the gap between the interior and exterior environments.

Sustainable Features and Functionality

Casa de Terra's main spaces consist of a yoga studio, communal kitchen, and gathering areas, all designed to foster connection among users. Large, double-glazed windows facilitate unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing the experience of tranquility. The yoga studio, positioned at the center of the structure, serves as a focal point, promoting both physical and mental health.

Innovative ventilation strategies are employed throughout the project, ensuring airflow consistency without mechanical assistance. This attribute aligns with the overarching objective to encourage occupant engagement with the natural environment. By prioritizing natural lighting and passive climate control, Casa de Terra exemplifies the potential of architecture to contribute to wellbeing while maintaining ecological balance.

To explore more about the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas behind Casa de Terra, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation for comprehensive details and insights.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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