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Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Facades in Contextually Responsive Residential Design

Authors:
Marco Vallario, Carlotta Puleo
Charred Wooden Shingles and Translucent Facades in Contextually Responsive Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and extensive glass facades, the design integrates sustainable materials and natural ventilation strategies to create an adaptable residential space that harmonizes with its urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features extensive glass facades to optimize natural light and reduce energy consumption.
03
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Adopts a bent A-frame design to create dynamic interior spaces and improve ventilation.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems to support eco-friendly water management practices.

The project under review presents a meticulously crafted architectural design that integrates contemporary aesthetics with functional requirements. Situated in an urban environment, this project serves a multifaceted role, contributing to the spatial dynamics of its context while addressing the needs of its occupants. The design incorporates an array of elements that exemplify modern architecture principles, combining form, function, and sustainability.

The building's structure is characterized by its use of both innovative and traditional materials, which include concrete, glass, and steel. These materials not only afford the design a robust and durable quality but also enhance its visual appeal. The concrete offers structural integrity and sound insulation, while expansive glass facades introduce natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere within the interior spaces. The steel elements contribute to the overall stability, allowing for larger open spaces and flexible layouts that adapt to various functions.

The project embodies a contextually responsive design approach, where the local climate and cultural backdrop have informed key architectural decisions. Natural ventilation strategies are integrated into the layout, promoting energy efficiency and occupant comfort. Additionally, outdoor spaces are strategically placed, fostering a connection between the building and its surrounding environment. The landscape design complements the architecture, utilizing native vegetation that requires minimal maintenance while enhancing biodiversity.

Sustainability is a pivotal theme throughout the design, with elements such as rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels incorporated into the project. These systems not only reduce the environmental footprint but also serve to educate occupants about sustainable practices. The overall layout facilitates seamless interactions between indoor and outdoor areas, encouraging a lifestyle that values ecological awareness.

Unique to this project is its attention to user experience, integrating technology and accessibility into the architectural framework. Smart building systems enable efficient management of resources and provide occupants with real-time feedback on their energy usage. Additionally, the design prioritizes accessibility for individuals of all abilities, ensuring that the spaces are inclusive and welcoming.

Moreover, the project’s conceptual framework is reflected in its architectural expressions, where innovative spatial configurations challenge conventional layouts. This design approach permits versatility in function, enabling areas to be easily reconfigured for different uses, whether for social gatherings, professional activities, or solitary pursuits.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs further reveals intricate details, such as the thoughtful placement of windows that enhance views and natural light, as well as the careful consideration of scale and proportion that harmonizes the structure with its surroundings. The architectural ideas presented in this project stand as a testament to forward-thinking design, emphasizing how architecture can facilitate a sophisticated dialogue between buildings, their inhabitants, and the environment.

For more in-depth insights into the architectural plans, sections, and designs, it is encouraged to delve deeper into this project presentation. This exploration will provide a comprehensive understanding of the design philosophy and functional nuances that define this architectural endeavor.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

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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