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Charred Wooden Shingles and Triple-Glazed Windows in an Eco-Friendly Artistic Retreat

Author:
Helga Lilley
Charred Wooden Shingles and Triple-Glazed Windows in an Eco-Friendly Artistic Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and equipped with triple-glazed windows, the design promotes energy efficiency and environmental sensitivity while serving as a collaborative retreat for artists.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features triple-glazed windows for superior thermal performance and natural light.
04
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize spatial dynamics and visual connection.
05
Strategically positioned to preserve existing flora and encourage local biodiversity.

The Černostes project is an architectural design located on the southern shore of Černostes Lake, intended for two painters. The design emphasizes natural light, sustainability, and social interaction while integrating seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. It consists of a central studio and two mirrored cottages strategically oriented to face the lake, promoting both connection and privacy.

The project serves as an artistic retreat, fostering creativity and collaboration between the two occupants. The layout encourages communication by positioning living spaces in close proximity while preserving private quarters for individual reflection.

Material Selection and Construction Techniques

The design employs a variety of materials that enhance durability and aesthetic continuity. The exterior is clad in wood siding, connecting it to local architectural traditions. A metal roof contributes to longevity and reflects sunlight, minimizing heat absorption. High-efficiency insulation, including fiberglass and rigid wood fiberboard, ensures energy efficiency throughout the year.

The use of timber frame construction allows for open interior spaces characterized by exposed timber trusses. It maintains a visual connection to the artistic nature of the occupation while accommodating flexible studio usage. Additionally, vapor-open insulation systems and energy recovery ventilation enhance indoor air quality and thermal performance.

Sustainability and Environmental Integration

Sustainability is a core component of the Černostes project. The design follows net-zero principles, incorporating solar energy generation and water management systems. The layout respects existing flora and fauna, including provisions for bat habitats, promoting biodiversity in the area.

Unique design approaches evident in the project include the adaptive use of space, allowing for a dynamic range of activities associated with artistic endeavors. The arrangement of the cottages fosters a sense of community without sacrificing individual privacy, balancing collaboration and solitude.

The architectural plans and sections illustrate these thoughtful design choices, revealing how spatial organization enhances both functionality and occupant experience. For further understanding of Černostes, explore the architectural designs and ideas presented in greater detail.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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