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Charred Wooden Shingles Complement Exposed Concrete Walls in a Versatile Family Retreat

Author:
Christophe Lafleur-chartier
Charred Wooden Shingles Complement Exposed Concrete Walls in a Versatile Family Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and robust exposed concrete, this residence harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing versatile spaces for family gatherings and creative activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance, contributing to its longevity.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and reducing the structural weight.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design, allowing for flexible interior configurations and maximizing usable space.
04
Includes a communal courtyard that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor environments, encouraging social interaction.
05
Strategically positioned large windows provide panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and optimize natural light.
The Bat House is a contemporary architectural project that embodies a thoughtful approach to design while paying homage to its surrounding environment. Located within a context that showcases a blend of historical relevance and natural beauty, the project emerges with a distinct architectural identity aimed at creating a harmonious living space. The architecture effectively integrates dual concepts: the preservation of the area’s historical significance and the enhancement of its natural features. This thoughtful balance not only respects the site’s past but also reinterprets it for modern use.

The primary function of the Bat House is to serve as a dwelling that nurtures creativity and community. It facilitates various activities through flexible spatial arrangements, providing residents with the opportunity to engage in communal workshops, artistic endeavors, and private reflection. The design integrates an open floor plan that allows for fluid movement between interior and exterior spaces, making it conducive to both collaboration and solitude. This fluidity is accentuated by extensive glass windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape, inviting natural light while creating an intimate connection with the outdoors.

An essential aspect of the design is its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Bat House utilizes a range of materials that are both locally sourced and renewable. Exposed concrete underpins the structure, offering durability while establishing a tactile contrast with the warmth of wood cladding. The use of vertical wood slats not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides necessary thermal insulation while contributing to an organic relationship with nature. These materials work harmoniously, supporting the architectural integrity of the project while communicating a strong sense of place.

The roof's design exhibits a gentle slope that not only serves practical purposes, such as effective rainwater drainage but also contributes to the building’s overall form. This inclination allows for the incorporation of green roofs, which support biodiversity and enhance the building's energy efficiency. The choice of roofing materials, particularly metal, further reflects the project’s focus on longevity and minimal maintenance, aligning with broader sustainability goals.

Inside the Bat House, the spatial organization promotes flexibility and multifunctionality. The ground level is characterized by communal areas that are intentionally designed for artistic and collaborative pursuits. Large gathering spaces connect seamlessly with the outdoor courtyard, creating an extension of living space that fosters social interaction. On the upper levels, private quarters provide an essential counterbalance, ensuring that residents can retreat into a more intimate environment while still being part of a larger community narrative. The incorporation of balconies encourages outdoor living and further solidifies the connection to the landscapes beyond the walls.

The Bat House stands as a testament to innovative architectural thinking that addresses both human and environmental needs. Every design decision reflects a careful consideration of context, materials, and functionality, resulting in a cohesive project that champions modern living while respecting the historical and ecological fabric of its location. This architectural representation not only redefines the concept of dwelling but also illustrates the profound impact that thoughtful design can have on the surrounding community and environment.

For those interested in exploring this project further, a comprehensive look at its architectural plans, sections, and design elements provides deeper insights into its approach and execution. Engaging with these architectural details can enrich one's understanding of the Bat House and the broader implications of its design philosophy, particularly in the realms of sustainable architecture and community-focused living.
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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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