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Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Efficiency in Compact Sustainable Living

Author:
Viviana Rosa Seyahian
Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Efficiency in Compact Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and equipped with solar panels, this compact structure maximizes energy efficiency while providing a versatile living space in the Delta del Río de la Plata.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural efficiency and thermal insulation.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and facilitate natural light.
04
Equipped with a rainwater harvesting system to support sustainable living practices.
05
Strategically positioned for optimal solar exposure, maximizing energy generation from solar panels.

## Windblades Architectural Design Overview

**Location:** Buenos Aires, Argentina (Delta del Río de la Plata)

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### Conceptual Framework

The Windblades design integrates sustainable architectural principles with the unique ecological and social contexts of the Delta del Río de la Plata. The project draws on the traditional cabin typology of the region while adapting modern living standards to promote affordability and environmental responsibility. By combining aesthetic appeal with functionality, the design fosters an interconnected living environment that prioritizes both individual privacy and communal interaction.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout features a compact footprint of approximately 25 square meters, originating from a simple 6m x 6m square, which is organized into three interconnected zones: communal space, sleeping quarters, and washroom facilities. This modular arrangement maximizes natural light and promotes cross-ventilation, allowing for adaptability to diverse lifestyles. The ground floor plan effectively distinguishes between public and private areas while enhancing overall connectivity, thereby encouraging social interaction.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials is critical to the project's sustainability objectives. Primary materials include local timber for structural components, which add warmth and minimize the ecological footprint, and galvanized steel for roofing and facades, enhancing durability. Features such as double-glazed windows contribute to thermal efficiency, while solar panels provide renewable energy, reducing reliance on conventional power sources. A rainwater harvesting system furthers the project's commitment to environmental responsibility by minimizing wastewater and promoting resource conservation.

Overall, the Windblades project exemplifies contemporary architectural practices that prioritize energy efficiency, ecological stewardship, and community integration, offering a model for future developments focused on sustainable living.

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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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