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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Focused Residential Setting

Author:
Weston Baker
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in a Community-Focused Residential Setting
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a dynamic green roof, the design creates a harmonious blend of natural materials and biophilic elements, resulting in a vibrant communal space for residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a green roof that enhances biodiversity and provides insulation.
02
Features charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and aesthetic warmth.
04
Includes a central community area centered around a living olive tree.
05
Design promotes natural ventilation through strategically placed openings.

## Project Overview

The architectural design is situated in a region characterized by rolling hills and abundant vegetation, integrating modern design principles with sustainability and a connection to the natural environment. The intent is to create an inviting and functional space that harmonizes with its lush surroundings.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The building's spatial organization is thoughtfully designed to facilitate movement and interaction while providing privacy. Public areas, including a spacious kitchen and dining room, feature large windows that invite natural light and offer expansive views of the landscape, promoting social connectivity. In contrast, private spaces such as bedrooms are strategically positioned to ensure seclusion while still benefiting from natural illumination through sizable glass panels. Additionally, community spaces are designed to accommodate gatherings, centered around a prominent olive tree that serves as a natural focal point, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Choice of materials plays a critical role in reinforcing both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Raw concrete serves as the primary structural component, providing durability and a minimalist aesthetic. Extensive glass façades enhance transparency and connectivity to the environment while maximizing daylight. Warm-toned timber is incorporated in cabinetry and furniture, contributing texture and warmth to the interiors. The green roof not only functions as an insulation layer but also fosters biodiversity and reduces stormwater runoff, demonstrating a commitment to ecological stewardship. Moreover, strategically placed stone elements offer tactile contrast and robustness throughout the design.

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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.

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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