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Charred Wooden Shingles and Straw-Wood Structure in Accessible Living Design

Authors:
Iida Juulia Nakari, Kaisa Maria Vulli, Matilda Eva-maaria Launonen, Vilma Saara Elisabet Karisto, Henri Halla-aho
Charred Wooden Shingles and Straw-Wood Structure in Accessible Living Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with a straw-wood element and clad in charred wooden shingles, this accessible living space prioritizes adaptability and sustainability while seamlessly integrating with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Straw-wood element provides exceptional insulation while minimizing environmental impact.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and fire resistance, reducing maintenance needs.
03
Bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and promotes energy efficiency.
04
Accessible features, including adjustable fixtures, ensure independence for all users.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management.

### Project Overview
Located in a context that prioritizes sustainability and accessibility, Pāpilio is designed to meet the housing needs of a couple, with specific considerations for a wheelchair user. The project aims to create an adaptable living environment that fosters a strong connection to nature while promoting an eco-conscious lifestyle. The architectural concept emphasizes flexibility, functionality, and the use of natural materials.

### Spatial Configuration and Accessibility
The architecture features a modular floor plan that enables the seamless transition between various living spaces, including bedrooms and work areas. This adaptability supports the evolving needs of its inhabitants, allowing rooms to serve multiple purposes. The design prioritizes accessibility through well-thought-out elements such as ramps, flexible furniture arrangements, and adjustable fixtures, ensuring ease of movement and independence for all users. Natural light is maximized through strategic window placements, enhancing the indoor atmosphere and encouraging interaction with the surrounding landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The material palette reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. Key features include energy-efficient straw-wood elements used for insulation and external cladding, alongside sustainably sourced thermal wood for added durability. Birch veneered plywood is employed for cabinetry, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Additionally, cork flooring contributes to acoustic comfort while maintaining a natural ambiance. The design integrates sustainable strategies such as a rainwater collection system and solar panels to enhance energy self-sufficiency, while natural ventilation methods reduce reliance on mechanical systems, thereby elevating overall environmental performance.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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