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Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Energy-Efficient Retreat in Northern Landscape

Authors:
Filip Zielinski, Benjamin Yong, Shweta Kamble
Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Energy-Efficient Retreat in Northern Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing to blend harmoniously with its northern surroundings, the retreat focuses on sustainable living and environmental stewardship while providing a tranquil escape for its guests.
5 key facts about this project
01
The retreat features charred wooden shingles, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while offering superior thermal performance.
03
A bent A-frame design allows for increased height in communal spaces, promoting natural light and openness.
04
Large floor-to-ceiling glass panels frame breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor connection.
05
The incorporation of green roofs supports biodiversity while improving energy efficiency and insulation.
The architectural project "360° of Nature" is a thoughtful exploration of sustainability and harmonization with the natural environment. Situated in a picturesque northern landscape marked by lakes and mountains, this design exemplifies a commitment to eco-friendly practices while maintaining a deep respect for the surrounding site. The project seeks to create a seamless connection between the occupants and the natural landscape, allowing residents and visitors to engage with their environment meaningfully.

At its core, "360° of Nature" serves as a multifunctional retreat that prioritizes both community and solitude. The layout consists of a central host complex that provides essential services and communal spaces, complemented by a series of guesthouses strategically placed to take full advantage of the surrounding views. This arrangement fosters a sense of community while allowing residents the privacy they seek. The structures use the natural topography of the site to enhance their visual and spatial appeal, offering panoramic vistas that encourage a heightened appreciation of the landscape.

The design principles behind this project reflect an astute understanding of user experience and environmental context. The choice of materials is of particular importance, with concrete serving as the primary structural material. This offers not only durability but also a high thermal mass, aiding in energy efficiency throughout the year. Large, floor-to-ceiling glass panels are incorporated to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views, effectively bringing the outside in. Insulated glazing further contributes to energy conservation while enhancing the overall comfort of the interiors.

The use of wood within the interior spaces introduces warmth and tactile quality, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Additionally, green roofs are part of the architectural strategy, contributing to biodiversity and helping to mitigate heat islands while seamlessly integrating the structures into their landscape. These innovative features collectively support the project’s aim to promote sustainability while enhancing the architectural experience.

One unique aspect of the "360° of Nature" project is its commitment to renewable energy solutions. Incorporating solar panels and geothermal systems aligns with modern principles of sustainable architecture, significantly reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. The design also anticipates the long-term resilience of the buildings, ensuring that they withstand local climatic conditions while maintaining functionality and aesthetics.

The thoughtful design of the roof lines and orientation of the buildings facilitates exceptional night sky observations, enabling occupants to connect with celestial events. This feature fosters a deeper engagement with earth and sky, enhancing the overall experience of the retreat. By focusing on these sensory aspects—sight, sound, and even the olfactory experience of the natural environment—the project elevates the simple act of residing in nature into something contemplative and enriching.

Architectural ideas embedded in this project showcase a clear vision that marries functionality with aesthetic sensibilities. Each component of the design serves a purpose while contributing to the overarching themes of sustainability and connection to nature. As a cohesive whole, "360° of Nature" transcends mere building; it offers an immersive experience that invites occupants to interact with their surroundings on multiple levels.

For those interested in exploring this project further, examining the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the functionality and innovative approaches adopted in "360° of Nature." The attention to detail and the holistic consideration of the environment in this architectural endeavor present an excellent opportunity to engage with the principles of sustainable architecture and innovative design.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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