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Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Jurij Bardelli
Charred Wooden Shingles and Vertical Gardens in Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

With charred wooden shingles enveloping a compact structure and integrated vertical gardens promoting self-sufficiency, this sustainable urban residence redefines living space through its focus on resource conservation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural stability while minimizing carbon footprint.
03
Integrated vertical gardens contribute to urban agriculture and improve air quality.
04
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while allowing for efficient drainage.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems promote water conservation and resource efficiency.
The Hortus Home project embodies a contemporary approach to sustainable living through thoughtful architectural design. Positioned in an urban context, this residential structure integrates functional living spaces with a small-scale garden, promoting self-sufficiency and ecological diversity. The design prioritizes energy efficiency, enhanced connectivity to nature, and localized agriculture, setting it apart from conventional housing projects.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

The spatial layout of the Hortus Home is meticulously planned to facilitate both domestic and agricultural activities. The design features designated areas for living and gardening, allowing occupants to engage harmoniously with their environment. Key areas in the project include a well-defined kitchen space directly adjacent to the garden, enabling easy access for culinary pursuits using fresh ingredients. The inclusion of large windows enhances natural light penetration while fostering visual continuity between indoor and outdoor spaces. This seamless integration promotes an elevated quality of life by encouraging occupants to connect with their surroundings.

Sustainable Design Elements

One of the unique aspects of the Hortus Home lies in its commitment to sustainability. The project employs renewable energy sources through the use of solar panels, significantly reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the design implements water management systems such as rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to resource conservation. The choice of materials reflects this ethos; lightweight wood for paneling contributes to thermal efficiency, while concrete provides structural integrity and durability.

Uniquely, the landscape design is focused on cultivating edible plants, such as vegetables and herbs, reinforcing the project’s self-sustaining principles. This deliberate choice not only enhances the aesthetic value but also encourages occupants to engage in gardening, promoting a lifestyle centered around healthy living and ecological mindfulness.

Call to Action

For those interested in further exploring the innovative aspects of the Hortus Home, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, a comprehensive project presentation is available. Delve into the architectural ideas that define this unique approach to sustainable living and discover the potential for these principles to influence future residential projects.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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