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Charred Wooden Shingles and White Facade Define an Artistic Retreat by the Lake

Author:
Shizuka Watanabe
Charred Wooden Shingles and White Facade Define an Artistic Retreat by the Lake

Project in-detail

Emphasizing a captivating interplay of charred wooden shingles and a stark white facade, this lakeside residence fosters artistic expression while seamlessly integrating into its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates a circular courtyard designed to enhance communal living and artistic interaction among inhabitants.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetic appeal but also for their fire-resistant properties, ensuring longevity and safety.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light while providing a unique architectural silhouette against the lakeside backdrop.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to the structural integrity of the home while promoting sustainability and reducing carbon footprint.
05
An integrated historical well site serves as both a nod to the past and a source of inspiration, enriching the connection to the surrounding landscape.
The Easel House project stands as a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture that effectively intertwines artistic expression with functional living. Located alongside a tranquil lake, this design not only serves as a residence but also as an inspiring space for creativity, embodying the concept of a home as an artistic canvas. The architecture emphasizes a harmonious relationship with its natural surroundings while providing a versatile environment conducive to creativity and reflection.

At the core of the Easel House is its unique conceptual framework that encourages interaction between its inhabitants and the landscape. The architecture is fundamentally about creating spaces that foster not just functionality but also inspiration. By opting for a minimalist exterior characterized by a white facade, the design promotes simplicity and purity, allowing the home to blend seamlessly into the natural canvas that envelops it. The choice of materials is both practical and aesthetic; the white facade reflects light and enhances the visual integration with the surrounding environment, helping to establish a serene living space that connects intimately with nature.

The key elements of the Easel House layout reveal a purposeful organization aimed at accommodating varied functions while encouraging collaboration. The ground floor features well-defined living quarters that prioritize comfort and connection among family members, alongside a dedicated workshop space designed for artistic endeavors. This atelier is particularly noteworthy as it invites creativity, providing an environment where inhabitants can engage with their craft without distractions. The presence of a circular courtyard further enhances communal activities, reinforcing the project's commitment to fostering social interaction.

The unique design approach of the Easel House is underscored by the integration of an old well site, which serves as a historical link to the landscape's past. Rather than seeing architecture as a standalone entity, this project emphasizes the importance of storytelling and historical awareness in design, allowing residents to feel a deeper sense of place. This attentiveness to context is evident in the architectural details throughout the project, which promote the continuity of nature within the living experience.

In terms of material selection, the design prudently utilizes a combination of concrete for structural integrity and black wood to create a warm, inviting atmosphere within the workshop. This duality not only enhances the tactile qualities of the interior but also serves to differentiate functional spaces within the home, further supporting its dual role as both residence and artistic retreat.

The architect's intention to create a dynamic space that adapts to the evolving needs of its inhabitants is one of the most compelling aspects of the Easel House. By prioritizing openness and light, this design maximizes natural illumination, helping to create an inspiring atmosphere that naturally encourages creativity. The architectural plans and sections illustrate a careful consideration of scale, massing, and proportion, seamlessly blending individual spaces into a coherent whole that reflects the lifestyle of its users.

Readers interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the design and its intricacies are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and additional architectural details that provide further insights into this unique project. The Easel House serves as a reminder of the potential of architecture to nourish creativity and foster meaningful connections with both people and nature. Discover more about how this innovative architectural design represents a fresh perspective on living and creating in harmony with the environment.
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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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