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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping Elevated Tree Structures for Communal Engagement

Authors:
Huiyi Zhang, Mi He, Aihui Du, Xiaoyun She
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping Elevated Tree Structures for Communal Engagement

Project in-detail

Elevated tree structures clad in charred wooden shingles reflect a deep integration with nature while providing multifunctional communal spaces for outdoor engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structures integrate seamlessly with the natural landscape, minimizing ground disturbance.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance while providing a unique aesthetic.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for structural integrity and sustainability.
04
A bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while promoting natural light.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems support ecological sustainability and resource management.

The project, titled "Regression • Freedom," embodies a contemporary architectural response to the integration of natural environments within urban living. Situated in Latvia, the design highlights the necessity of reconnecting human habitats with natural landscapes. This architectural endeavor serves multiple functions, focusing on communal interaction and promoting sustainable living.

The overall layout incorporates various spaces designed to foster community engagement while emphasizing ecological responsibility. The project includes distinct zones such as children’s play areas, camping facilities, and elevated tree houses that encourage exploration and connection with nature. Each structural element has been intentionally designed to reflect organic forms, symbolizing the relationship between architecture and the surrounding flora.

Innovative Design Approaches

One of the key distinctions of this project is its representation of nature through architecture. The use of bird imagery throughout the design is significant, symbolizing freedom and the return to a natural state. This thematic approach anchors the project within a framework of cultural significance, invoking historical connections while addressing contemporary issues of urban living.

The spatial organization maximizes the natural terrain, utilizing elevated structures to minimize land disruption. Extensive glazing and open-plan areas enhance natural light flow, creating a seamless transition between interior and exterior spaces. This design choice not only promotes energy efficiency but also captures the essence of the surrounding landscape, creating an immersive environment.

Sustainability is at the heart of the architectural approach. Rainwater harvesting systems and innovative waste management techniques are integrated into the design, promoting conservation and responsible usage of resources. The project encourages individuals to participate in sustainable practices, reinforcing community awareness of ecological impact. Each chosen material, including natural wood and steel, was selected for its environmental implications and aesthetic value, contributing to the project’s overall sustainability narrative.

To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas behind "Regression • Freedom," readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation in detail. This exploration will uncover the thoughtful considerations and technical decisions that shape this significant architectural initiative.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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