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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Spruce Frame Define a Serene Nature Retreat

Author:
Guido Strohecker
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Spruce Frame Define a Serene Nature Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and a sustainable spruce frame, the design seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings to provide an adaptable retreat that emphasizes ecological integrity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from local spruce and ash, minimizing transportation emissions.
02
Utilizes a patented wooden frame method, eliminating the need for adhesives.
03
Incorporates charring techniques for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
04
Features a flexible modular design that adapts to various spatial configurations.
05
Promotes a seamless relationship with nature through expansive panoramic windows.

VillaVOON serves as a contemporary residential design that harmoniously integrates with its natural surroundings. The project emphasizes sustainable architecture while providing a flexible living space that caters to various functions. Implementing modular construction techniques, VillaVOON allows for easy assembly and adaptability, making it suitable for use as a primary residence or seasonal retreat.

The architecture of VillaVOON embodies an ecological philosophy, focusing on the use of locally sourced materials and minimizing the carbon footprint. Spruce wood forms the primary structural framework, while ash wood is incorporated into the beams. The project avoids the use of adhesives and synthetic materials, thereby ensuring a natural living environment that promotes health and well-being.

Innovative design strategies contribute to VillaVOON's uniqueness, setting it apart from conventional residential projects. The modular construction system consists of wooden components that feature a patented frame design. This frame not only provides structural integrity but also allows for a variety of spatial configurations, enhancing functionality and user experience.

The building's orientation and large windows establish a seamless connection to the outdoor landscape, allowing natural light to flood the interior and offering expansive views. This emphasis on transparency and openness fosters an immersive relationship between the occupants and their environment. The aesthetic of VillaVOON is characterized by clean lines and natural finishes, exhibiting a balance between modern design and organic forms.

VillaVOON prioritizes adaptability, with the potential for various uses based on the occupants’ needs. The flexibility of space allows residents to customize layouts according to their preferences and requirements. This approach not only maximizes usability but also encourages a personal connection to the living environment.

For those interested in architectural details, examining the architectural plans, sections, and designs of VillaVOON can provide deeper insights into the project’s innovative techniques and unique strategies. The interplay between sustainability, modularity, and modern aesthetics positions VillaVOON as a relevant contribution to contemporary architectural discourse. Explore the project presentation to discover more about its architectural ideas and the intricacies of its design.

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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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