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Charred Wooden Shingles and Tiered Structures for Sustainable Elderly Living

Author:
Emma Clara Helena Karlsson Bruhn
Charred Wooden Shingles and Tiered Structures for Sustainable Elderly Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a tiered structure, the design fosters community engagement and sustainability while catering specifically to the needs of elderly residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural efficiency and reduce waste.
03
Features a tiered layout that maximizes both views and accessibility for residents.
04
Integrates a central garden as a communal space promoting social interaction.
05
Employs passive solar design principles to optimize energy efficiency and reduce heating costs.

## Overview

The design project "Life in Between" addresses the specific needs of elderly living through a focus on sustainability, community interaction, and a coherent relationship with the surrounding terrain. Located on a hillside, the design responds to its contextual environment by prioritizing resident privacy alongside social engagement. The architectural strategy is characterized by a balance between functional requirements and aesthetic considerations.

## Design Strategy and Community Integration

The project emphasizes the creation of a supportive environment that encourages both interaction and comfort for its residents. Residential units are strategically arranged to enhance communal living while ensuring individual privacy. Key elements include an integrated architectural approach that minimizes ground disruption and maximizes views. The ground floor serves as a multifunctional hub, encompassing essential communal spaces such as a library, dining areas, and activity rooms, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The material choices reflect a commitment to both functionality and environmental sustainability. Concrete provides structural stability, while natural stone enhances aesthetic harmony with the landscape. Wood introduces warmth and comfort in interior spaces, complemented by translucent textile materials that facilitate natural light while safeguarding privacy. Strategic glazing systems further optimize views and daylight penetration, contributing to energy efficiency. The project's incorporation of passive solar design, solar panels, and geothermal energy systems underscores its dedication to reducing reliance on non-renewable resources, affirming its role as an environmentally responsible living solution.

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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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