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Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Features Enhancing Compact Living Spaces

Authors:
Nikita Novak, Sofiia Ianko
Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Features Enhancing Compact Living Spaces

Project in-detail

With its distinct charred wooden shingles and innovative rainwater harvesting system, this compact residence exemplifies a thoughtful approach to sustainable living while creating a harmonious blend of personal space and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that maximizes both aesthetic appeal and structural efficiency.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a unique weathered look.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels to increase insulation and reduce construction waste.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system tailored to promote sustainability in daily living.
05
Creates multifunctional spaces that adapt to various needs without sacrificing comfort or style.
The "Two Moons" architectural project represents a nuanced exploration of personal space, combining functional design with a strong conceptual framework that emphasizes individuality and community. The architecture is designed to resonate with the idea that a home serves as a personal universe, akin to a "moon," where one can find both solitude and social connection. This duality is reflected in the layout and spatial configuration, ensuring that the building accommodates a range of activities while fostering a sense of belonging.

The primary function of the project is to create a living environment that balances private retreat with communal gathering. The design showcases an innovative approach to space management, with a total functional area of 20.62 square meters that maximizes both usability and comfort. The floor plan offers a blending of distinct zones that can adapt to various activities, from daily living to entertaining, supporting a modern lifestyle with flexible needs.

One of the most notable elements of the "Two Moons" project is its materiality. A careful selection of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the building’s structural integrity and environmental considerations. The use of wood brings warmth and acoustical comfort to the interior spaces. Concrete, as the primary structural material, provides stability, while steel elements contribute to the frame’s strength and design flexibility. Glass, prominently featured in the facade, allows for ample natural light infiltration, connecting the indoors with the outdoor environment and promoting a seamless interaction with nature.

The elevation of the building is thoughtfully articulated, with sloped roofs that serve both functional and aesthetic purposes. This design choice aids in effective rainwater management while creating a dynamic visual profile. The incorporation of circular and angular windows plays a crucial role in defining the building's character, enhancing its narrative while inviting views of the surrounding landscape. These windows not only serve as visual focal points but also symbolize the overarching theme of the project, embodying the concept of personal moons that represent individual sanctuaries.

Unique design approaches manifest in several aspects of the project. The integration of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems underscores a commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. This approach aligns with contemporary architectural practices focused on minimizing ecological footprints while enhancing the livability of spaces. Additionally, the versatile furniture solutions, including adjustable tables, reflect an understanding of contemporary lifestyle demands, where spaces need to adapt to varied uses and preferences.

The spatial arrangement emphasizes both privacy and interaction, with clearly defined areas for living, dining, and bathing. The living area, centrally located, encourages gatherings and promotes a sense of community, while the separate bathing facilities provide a necessary retreat for personal time. This thoughtful separation and arrangement of spaces contribute to the overall experience of the home, ensuring that residents can find both connection and solitude as desired.

In addition to its practical applications, "Two Moons" serves as a physical representation of the idea that our homes can reflect the complexities of our lives. The design intuitively addresses the balance between individual needs and social interactions, making it relevant to modern living.

For readers interested in understanding the full scope of the project, including the intricacies of its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. By reviewing these elements, one can gain a deeper appreciation of how "Two Moons" blends innovative materials with a thoughtful approach to spatial design, ultimately creating a harmonious and functional living environment.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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