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Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cladding Define Sustainable Waterfront Living

Author:
Rodion Kosmin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber Cladding Define Sustainable Waterfront Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and expansive timber cladding, this residence elegantly embraces its waterfront location while prioritizing sustainable living for modern families.
5 key facts about this project
01
The use of charred wooden shingles provides enhanced weather resistance and a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural stability while promoting eco-friendly building practices.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal natural light penetration and unique roofline dynamics.
04
Integrated bat houses support local wildlife, reflecting a commitment to environmental sustainability.
05
Meandering pathways connect the residences to outdoor communal spaces, fostering community interaction.
The Twin Houses project exemplifies a thoughtfully conceived architectural endeavor designed to foster both community interaction and individual privacy within a harmonious living environment. Positioned gracefully along the edge of a tranquil water body, these residences embody a modern aesthetic while seamlessly blending with the surrounding natural landscape. The project represents a contemporary approach to family living, emphasizing functionality alongside visual coherence.

Functionally, the Twin Houses serve as dual living spaces that cater to the needs of their inhabitants. The design promotes connectivity between the two units while allowing for a sense of personal retreat. Each house is distinctly tailored to accommodate individual lifestyles, striking a balance between communal and private spaces. This duality not only supports family dynamics but also encourages social engagement, ultimately enriching the living experience.

The overall layout is meticulously planned, with both houses oriented to maximize views of the water and ensure natural light floods the interiors. The strategic placement of the structures fosters interaction through shared outdoor spaces and pathways, enhancing accessibility while maintaining privacy for each residence. By incorporating landscaped gardens and outdoor terraces, the design encourages residents to embrace the outdoors, promoting well-being and connection with nature.

One of the most significant aspects of the Twin Houses is its materiality. The project makes extensive use of wood, glass, steel, and concrete, thoughtfully selected to create a sustainable environment. The wooden cladding offers a natural aesthetic that resonates with the surroundings, while the use of glass facilitates transparency and light penetration, making the interiors feel spacious and inviting. Steel elements contribute structural integrity and enable clean lines that characterize the modern design approach. Concrete foundations provide stability, ensuring the longevity of the buildings.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The asymmetrical roofline serves not only as an architectural statement but also as a functional element that efficiently directs rainwater, contributing to the sustainability narrative of the design. Furthermore, the angled roofs enhance thermal dynamics, aiding in the management of indoor climates without relying heavily on mechanical systems.

Residents benefit from separate public and private realms within each house. The public spaces, including living areas and kitchens, are likely designed to be open and interconnected, encouraging socialization and family activities. Conversely, bedrooms and private areas are intentionally positioned to minimize exposure to common spaces, thus ensuring a retreat-like atmosphere. This thoughtful spatial arrangement reflects a deep understanding of residential dynamics and design efficacy.

The meticulous landscaping surrounding the Twin Houses is designed to encourage interaction with nature, with pathways that meander through lush gardens and connect the residences to each other. The integration of natural elements not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also promotes ecological balance, as the project respects and enhances the local biodiversity.

The inclusion of features such as bat houses indicates a commitment to environmental sustainability, reflecting a holistic approach to design that goes beyond human needs to encompass broader ecological considerations. It is clear that the architecture of the Twin Houses is not merely about shelter but rather about creating a nurturing environment that fosters community, ecological awareness, and a sense of belonging.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Twin Houses project, readers are encouraged to explore detailed architectural plans, sections, and design elements that reveal the intricate thought processes behind the project. By doing so, one can gain deeper insights into the architectural ideas and designs that make this project a remarkable example of contemporary residential architecture.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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