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Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Mass Create a Passive Solar Home in Rural Russia

Author:
Yulia Gusarova
Charred Wooden Shingles and Thermal Mass Create a Passive Solar Home in Rural Russia
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Employing charred wooden shingles and a dual-roof system, this passive solar residence utilizes thermal mass to optimize energy efficiency while maintaining a strong connection to its rural Russian context.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a dual-roof system to optimize solar energy collection.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for efficient thermal performance.
04
Incorporates thermal mass from log materials to regulate indoor temperatures.
05
Designed for strong integration with the rural landscape and cultural context.

### Project Overview

The Passive Solar Heating House combines traditional Russian village architecture with sustainable building practices. Located along the Trans-Siberian Railroad, its design addresses the region's climatic challenges while respecting local architectural heritage. The project emphasizes passive solar heating, inspired by the traditional "pechka," while incorporating modern aesthetics and functional efficiency tailored to the needs of its inhabitants.

### Material and Environmental Strategy

The choice of materials is integral to the project's performance and aesthetic alignment. Log wood serves as the primary structural component, reflecting traditional construction methods and providing substantial thermal insulation. Large, insulated glass facades enhance daylight penetration while minimizing heat loss, supporting the overall goal of natural lighting and warmth retention. Specialized insulation materials are incorporated to store solar heat, reducing reliance on additional heating sources. Additionally, reinforced steel elements support the glazing and roofing systems, while lightweight roofing materials are used to manage heat dispersal during peak temperatures.

### Spatial and Functional Design

The design incorporates flexible spatial configurations suitable for various living arrangements. The modular living spaces can adapt to the occupants' evolving needs, enhancing usability. A dual-roof system maximizes solar collection and allows direct solar energy access into the dwelling. With a strategic orientation that positions glazed facades towards the east and south, the design optimizes sunlight exposure for heating in colder climates. Furthermore, the integration of outdoor spaces promotes a connection with the natural environment, fostering a sustainable lifestyle while facilitating communal interactions. The building's layout considers both individual and community needs, with potential applications as a temporary shelter during emergencies.

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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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