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Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Walls Enclosing a Central Olive Garden Community Space

Authors:
Petter Elverum, Ahmet Çam
Charred Wooden Shingles and Stone Walls Enclosing a Central Olive Garden Community Space

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and robust stone walls creating a serene enclosure, the design brings together a central olive garden that serves as a vibrant communal space for tasting and enjoying local produce.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used for sustainable construction and interior warmth.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light while creating a unique visual silhouette.
04
A central olive garden serves as a communal space, fostering community engagement and appreciation for local agriculture.
05
Stone walls provide thermal mass, ensuring year-round comfort and energy efficiency.
The project presents a thoughtful architectural design that seamlessly intertwines with its rural landscape, creating a unique residential experience. The concept centers on the cultivation and appreciation of olive oil, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region and emphasizing the connection between the built environment and nature. This residence serves both a functional purpose, providing comfortable living spaces for its inhabitants, and represents a lifestyle that celebrates local produce and community engagement.

Architecture in this context is crafted around three primary walls that frame a garden, effectively creating intimate outdoor spaces while defining the interior’s organization. The design promotes a sense of exploration and discovery, leading visitors and residents alike through a carefully curated journey. Upon entering, one finds a narrow path guiding them toward the heart of the home, where an 8-meter-wide opening serves as a focal point, connecting the kitchen, dining zone, and tasting areas. This connection fosters social interactions while allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces, illuminating the living areas with warmth.

The spatial configuration of the house exemplifies an intelligent approach to circulation. Different zones are thoughtfully separated, establishing a clear distinction between communal and private spaces. The kitchen and dining area, for instance, are united yet distinct, catering to both family gatherings and more intimate moments. Such spatial delineation is essential in promoting a communal lifestyle centered around the enjoyment of food and the experiences that accompany it.

Materiality plays a significant role in the project, with a careful selection that enhances both the aesthetic and functional qualities of the design. The use of thick stone walls offers structural integrity and thermal mass, ensuring the interior remains comfortable throughout various seasons. Concrete elements contribute to the robustness of the structure, while wooden beams and ceilings introduce a warm visual contrast, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Furthermore, layers of plywood are utilized throughout the design, showcasing versatility in both insulation and finishes. This combination of materials not only supports the architectural vision but also reflects the region's artisanal traditions and commitment to quality.

One of the unique aspects of this project is its integration with the landscape. The roofline captures the undulating forms of the terrain, reinforcing the notion of the architecture as a part of the environment rather than a protrusion from it. The garden, framed by the three walls, acts as an extension of the indoor living areas, allowing inhabitants to engage with seasonal changes and cultivate a deeper appreciation for the surrounding agricultural landscape.

In addition to fostering a connection with nature, the design encourages community interaction through thoughtfully placed communal spaces. The tasting room serves as a venue for gatherings and an educational experience, promoting the culture of olive oil and its significance to the local economy. This element highlights the project’s intention to be more than just a residence; it aspires to be a hub for social engagement and cultural appreciation.

Such a design approach underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and an environmentally conscious lifestyle. By embracing the local context, the architecture not only meets the residents' needs but also champions a philosophy of responsible living. Through its embodiment of the relationship between the natural world and human habitation, the project sets a standard for future residential designs within similar rural contexts.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural ideas and design intentions behind this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed architectural plans and sections. This exploration will provide valuable insights into the unique approaches employed and the careful considerations that shape this residence. Engaging with these elements will reveal how architecture can foster connections to both the landscape and the community it serves.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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