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Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Natural Ventilation in a Forest Retreat

Author:
Nicholas Brown
Charred Wooden Shingles Embrace Natural Ventilation in a Forest Retreat

Project in-detail

Employing charred wooden shingles and dynamic roofing, the design captures natural light and airflow while creating distinct meditative zones within a forested retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles contribute to fire resistance while integrating with the forest aesthetic.
02
Dynamic roofing adjusts to seasonal weather changes, enhancing indoor comfort.
03
Curvilinear walls guide movement and create immersive spatial experiences.
04
Natural ventilation is prioritized through strategically placed openings, promoting airflow.
05
Distinct meditative zones cater to various practices, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

### Overview

"The Mystery of Stillness" is situated in a forested area of Latvia, emphasizing a connection between its occupants and the surrounding natural environment. The design intent centers on creating a meditative space that promotes mental clarity and self-reflection. This project integrates spatial organization, material selection, and a harmonious relationship with the landscape to facilitate a profound experience of tranquillity.

### Spatial Strategy

The layout is thoughtfully organized to include distinct zones dedicated to various meditative activities. These areas—ranging from quiet contemplation spaces to communal gathering zones—are interlinked to promote both privacy and social interaction. Pathways woven through the forest lead occupants toward the structure, enhancing the journey into a serene environment. Curvilinear walls guide movement while fostering a sensory engagement with the space.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects a commitment to both aesthetic resonance and environmental responsibility. Wood is utilized for its organic qualities, featuring a blackened finish that integrates with the forest. Concrete forms the structural base, providing contrast and emotional grounding, while steel ensures durability. Glass elements are incorporated to maximize natural light and forest views, effectively merging interior and exterior spaces. Sustainable construction practices include the use of prefabrication techniques and local materials, significantly reducing the project's environmental footprint. The roof design fosters natural ventilation, minimizing reliance on artificial climate control.

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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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