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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create Climate-Responsive Modular Housing

Authors:
Mădălina Stănășel, Tudor sabin Lulciuc, Ana Neacșu, Andra Panait
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable Timber Create Climate-Responsive Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, this modular housing solution adapts seamlessly to diverse climates while promoting sustainable living through its innovative construction and design.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features charred wooden shingles that enhance durability while providing a visually appealing facade.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized not only for structural integrity but also for their thermal efficiency.
03
Each modular unit can be customized for various climatic conditions, ensuring optimal performance in diverse environments.
04
The project incorporates communal courtyards that encourage social interaction while maintaining individual privacy.
05
An innovative bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while ensuring efficient water drainage.
The nTYPE project represents a thoughtful approach to modular housing design, addressing the diverse needs of inhabitants in various environmental contexts. It emphasizes a commitment to sustainability while promoting modular configurations that suit differing geographical locations. By integrating adaptable living solutions, the project showcases a blend of modern architectural practices with a sensitivity to the specific climatic and social dynamics of each area.

At its core, the nTYPE project serves the function of providing flexible living spaces that can easily adjust to the changing needs of their occupants. Each of the seven proposed modules, measuring 3.60 m by 3.60 m, is designed not only to be functional but also to enhance the occupants' way of life. These modules can be arranged in various spatial configurations, allowing for personalized layouts that cater to different lifestyles. The design reflects an understanding of how living patterns evolve, making this architecture particularly relevant in today’s fast-changing world.

The architectural elements incorporate a variety of materials, with an emphasis on sustainability and durability. The primary materials used in the project include wood for structural framing and exterior cladding, enhancing thermal insulation and offering an inviting aesthetic. Steel serves a crucial role in providing strength and stability to the building framework, ensuring longevity in various environmental conditions. Glazing and transparent panels optimize natural light while facilitating a connection to the surrounding landscape, ultimately reducing energy consumption. The integration of solar panels points to an important shift towards renewable energy sources in residential architecture, ensuring that these homes are not only livable but also environmentally responsible.

Uniquely, the project considers its response to different climatic conditions. For instance, the design incorporates passive solar principles tailored to each context—these principles enhance comfort while minimizing ecological footprints. In snow-prone regions, the modules are elevated to manage snowfall efficiently, while darker exterior finishes help absorb solar heat, reducing heating needs. In contrast, designs meant for wetlands incorporate features like outdoor decks that harmonize with natural waterways, fostering a seamless integration with nature. The emphasis on varying courtyard configurations allows for a blend of communal living and private spaces, thus encouraging social interaction while respecting the privacy of residents.

The nTYPE project exemplifies a thoughtful and deliberate approach to modular architecture, revealing an understanding of the challenges faced in contemporary living. Attention to specific design modules highlights its adaptability to different urban and natural environments, emphasizing a holistic perspective towards building sustainable communities. The integration of lifestyle considerations with architectural efficiency marks this project as a significant contribution to modern design discourse.

For those interested in exploring the more intricate details of this innovative housing concept, reviewing the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs could provide deeper insights into the vision and execution of the nTYPE project. Such an examination will illustrate how the design addresses real-world needs through its unique approach to modular living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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