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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Façades in a Flexible Lakeside Residence

Authors:
Vrutangi Patel, Kshitij Wadhwa
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Façades in a Flexible Lakeside Residence

Project in-detail

Drawing inspiration from the surrounding misty environment, the design boasts charred wooden shingles and expansive glass façades, creating a harmonious lakeside residence that seamlessly merges indoor and outdoor living.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Adaptive glass panels allow for dynamic environmental control and integration with the outdoor space.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used throughout, promoting sustainability and structural efficiency.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light while maintaining structural integrity against local weather patterns.
05
A central green court serves as a multifunctional space, bridging indoor and outdoor living experiences.
The architectural project known as Becloud represents a thoughtful integration of design and environment, responding directly to its unique context by Haliwell Lake. Situated in a location where clouds and mist are continuous companions, Becloud embraces these atmospheric conditions, allowing them to shape the architecture and the experiences within. This project serves not only as a residence but also as a space that fosters a profound connection between its inhabitants and the surrounding landscape, inviting nature into everyday life.

The function of Becloud is multifaceted, providing living quarters while promoting engagement with the outdoors. The design prioritizes natural light and the interplay of interior and exterior spaces, creating an environment that is both open and intimate. The architects have conceptualized a home that adapts to the dynamics of the weather, utilizing flexible boundaries that allow for modulation of the space according to the residents’ needs and preference for interaction with the external environment.

An essential feature of the design is its innovative utilization of materials. The project makes extensive use of glass to create large, transparent surfaces that dissolve the boundaries between inside and outside. This choice not only maximizes views of the serene lake and surrounding landscape but also allows for abundant natural light to penetrate the interior. This transparency is complemented by structural elements crafted from steel, which contributes to the home's resilience while maintaining a sense of lightness in its profile. Wood adds warmth and texture to the space, juxtaposing the colder feel of glass and steel, facilitating a balance that promotes comfort.

The spatial organization of Becloud is carefully planned, featuring a central green court that serves as a vital transition area, bridging indoor and outdoor living. The living room is designed as a spacious, sunlit area that enhances the connection to nature, while bedrooms are strategically positioned to optimize privacy and serene views of the lake. An open-concept kitchen integrates seamlessly with the living area, supporting social interaction and fluid movement within the home. The outdoor dining deck extends the living space, promoting alfresco dining against the backdrop of the picturesque landscape, reinforcing the relationship between the structure and its setting.

The Becloud project is distinguished by its unique design approach that emphasizes flexibility and responsiveness. Modular spaces within the home can be reconfigured to adapt to different functions, a feature that addresses the evolving needs of the inhabitants. Furthermore, the design uses operable glass panels that allow for passive climate control, ensuring that residents can comfortably engage with, or retreat from, changing environmental conditions.

Sustainability is a pervasive theme in Becloud's design, with an emphasis on using natural materials and energy-efficient systems that align with contemporary environmental standards. This approach not only reflects a commitment to ecological awareness but also enhances the overall living experience, allowing residents to enjoy the beauty of their surroundings while minimizing their environmental impact.

In summary, Becloud stands as an exemplar of thoughtful architectural design, emphasizing a harmonious relationship between built form and nature. Its careful selection of materials, innovative spatial arrangements, and responsive environmental control systems foster an engaging and inviting living space. For those interested in further exploring the intricacies of this project, including its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, a closer examination of the project presentation will provide valuable insights into the creative processes that shaped this unique dwelling.
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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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