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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Mesh Define a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Artis Miezītis, Artis Miezītis
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Mesh Define a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

With walls constructed of charred wooden shingles and a transparent mesh framework, the design creates a harmonious balance between interior comfort and mountainous surroundings, serving as a flexible living space that emphasizes sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Walls constructed from charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance and blend with the natural landscape.
02
Transparent mesh elements facilitate natural ventilation while maintaining unobstructed views.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability and reduce carbon footprint.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes interior space while promoting natural lighting.
05
Solar panels integrated into the roofing system support off-grid energy usage.

### Project Overview

Located in a mountainous region, the project emphasizes a thoughtful relationship between built structures and the natural environment. The intent is to create a living space that prioritizes sustainability and modularity while fostering a strong connection to its surroundings. This design approach facilitates not only functional living but also aesthetic coherence with the landscape.

### Structural Integration and Spatial Strategy

The building is characterized by a rectangular form and a steeply pitched slatted roof, which aids in water drainage in a high precipitation area. Extensive open spaces, achieved through lower walls partially enclosed by mesh or transparent materials, invite natural light into the interior and offer unobstructed views of the landscape. This spatial arrangement encourages an interaction between the indoor and outdoor environments, fostering an immersive living experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Key materials include wood for framing, which aligns with natural aesthetics, and mesh that enhances ventilation while maintaining a lightweight barrier. Reinforced glass, if utilized, would assist in preserving views while enhancing energy efficiency. The roofing, likely comprised of galvanized steel or aluminum, ensures durability against environmental elements, while concrete flooring provides stability suited for seismic activity. The integration of solar panels reflects a commitment to renewable energy, facilitating off-grid living and reducing the structure's carbon footprint. Natural ventilation strategies further support the sustainability framework by decreasing reliance on mechanical climate control systems.

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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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