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Charred Wooden Shingles and Textured Concrete Create a Shelter Harmonizing with Nature

Authors:
Duarte Franco Da Rosa, Ana Sofia Martins, Margarida Alexandra Matos Bessa
Charred Wooden Shingles and Textured Concrete Create a Shelter Harmonizing with Nature
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Emphasizing charred wooden shingles and a textured concrete façade, the design seamlessly integrates with the landscape while providing a functional living space that prioritizes sustainability and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while blending with the natural setting.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural support and thermal efficiency.
03
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior volume while reducing material waste.
04
Large, strategically placed windows optimize natural light and connectivity to the landscape.
05
The eco-focused approach utilizes locally sourced materials to minimize environmental impact.

## Analytical Report on Mole House

### Project Overview

Mole House is an architectural residential design situated in an unspecified geographical location. The design philosophy centers on the interplay between contemporary living and the natural environment, addressing evolving climatic conditions while fostering a connection to nature. The structure is conceived as a robust and adaptable entity that maintains harmony with its landscape, prioritizing environmental sustainability and promoting a lifestyle that is sensitive to the surrounding ecology.

### Spatial Arrangement and Functionality

The spatial organization of Mole House is designed to enhance flow and functionality while maintaining an intimate atmosphere. The primary zones include a flexible living and working area, an efficient cooking space that overlooks the outdoors, and a sleeping area strategically distanced from more active zones. Hallways and an atrium facilitate transitions throughout the home, allowing natural light to pervade and ensuring connections between the various spaces while upholding privacy. The front porch serves as an inviting threshold, integrating outdoor and indoor living and encouraging social interaction.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality plays a crucial role in both the aesthetic and functional aspects of Mole House. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, supporting expansive open spaces while ensuring stability. The exterior features a natural textured finish that resonates with the local landscape, while large glass windows enhance natural lighting and views, effectively merging interior and exterior realms. The use of wood in interior finishes offers warmth and tactile comfort. By employing locally sourced materials and passive solar design strategies, Mole House minimizes its environmental impact, aligning with contemporary sustainability efforts and promoting the well-being of its inhabitants.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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