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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Walls in Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Muzzammil Ibrahim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Walls in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and advanced insulated glass walls, the design creates a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor environments while promoting sustainable urban living.
5 key facts about this project
01
MUVS technology allows for dynamic privacy and light regulation through adaptable glass wall systems.
02
Vertical gardens incorporated into the structure promote biodiversity and enhance air quality.
03
The use of parametric furniture systems enables multifunctional living spaces tailored to resident needs.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing an aesthetic connection to nature.
05
Cross-laminated timber panels significantly reduce the building's carbon footprint and construction time.

## Overview

Located in a context that prioritizes sustainable urban living, the design seeks to integrate advanced technologies and eco-conscious practices within residential environments. The project emphasizes a balanced coexistence of living spaces that cater to diverse activities, fostering both community interactions and individual privacy. This approach is rooted in addressing contemporary challenges related to urbanization and environmental sustainability.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout is organized into distinct yet interconnected zones, promoting a harmonious flow between public and private areas. The upper levels are characterized by a rhythmic arrangement that incorporates both communal spaces for gatherings and private areas for personal use. Vertical extensions allow future growth without compromising ground space usage, enhancing microclimatic conditions through integrated vertical gardens and optimized air circulation.

The design includes large communal areas to facilitate social interactions, while more intimate spaces—such as family rooms and study areas—provide refuge within the broader ecosystem. Specially designated areas, like the “Eternity Space” and “The Space of Family Culture,” highlight cultural expressions essential to community bonding.

## Materiality and Technological Integration

Material selection prioritizes sustainability and functionality, combining aesthetic durability with operational efficiency. Extensive use of glass in facades and interiors maximizes natural light, while a robust metal framework reinforces structural integrity. Composite materials are employed in vertical farming systems, enhancing ecological performance.

The project incorporates smart technology, exemplified by Multi-Use Vertical Shields (MUVS), which serve as intelligent barriers regulating privacy and energy efficiency. Additionally, Multi-Use Robotic Parametric Furniture Systems (MSRPS) allow for customizable and adaptable furniture solutions, enhancing space utility. These features illustrate a commitment to innovative design that seeks to minimize environmental impact while addressing the needs of residents.

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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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