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Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping Spacious Living with Vertical Gardens

Author:
Daria Ershova
Charred Wooden Shingles Enveloping Spacious Living with Vertical Gardens

Project in-detail

Wrapped in charred wooden shingles and seamlessly integrated with vertical gardens, the residence creates a tranquil environment that fosters mindfulness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates vertical gardens within the living spaces to promote biodiversity and occupant engagement with nature.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a contemporary aesthetic.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural strength while reducing carbon footprint.
04
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural light and create spacious, open interiors.
05
Includes dedicated areas for herbal preparation, connecting traditional practices with modern living.
The architectural project, known as “House in House,” represents a thoughtful exploration of how contemporary design can harmonize with the natural environment. It exemplifies an approach to architecture that prioritizes connection to nature while catering to the needs of modern living. This project serves as a residential space designed not just for functionality but for fostering a deeper relationship between the occupants and their surroundings.

At its core, “House in House” symbolizes a sanctuary where the chaos of city life can be momentarily set aside, allowing for introspection and connection with the natural world. The design celebrates simplicity, providing a backdrop for a lifestyle that encourages mindfulness and engagement with the environment. The house comprises multiple levels, each serving distinct functions while maintaining a cohesive flow throughout. The first level features a spacious living room anchored by a fireplace, encouraging social interaction and warmth. Adjacent to this central space, a workshop dedicated to herbal preparation signifies the project's focus on self-sustainability and traditional practices.

As one ascends to the second level, the design transforms into an area conducive to reflection and meditation. The openness and natural light filtered through large windows create a serene environment, inviting personal contemplation. The third level shifts the focus to private quarters, offering a more intimate space for rest and rejuvenation. The thoughtful layout prioritizes vertical connectivity, allowing natural light to saturate the interiors and enhancing the spatial experience.

Materials play a fundamental role in the overall expression of the project. Predominantly, wood is utilized to establish warmth, creating an inviting atmosphere within the home. The strategic use of glass serves to blur the lines between inside and outside, allowing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape and continually reminding occupants of their connection to nature. Stone adds an essential grounding element to the design, providing stability and strength, while textile shutters contribute flexibility by allowing control over the amount of light filtering into living spaces.

Unique design approaches set this project apart from typical residential architecture. The gabled roofs are reminiscent of traditional vernacular forms, yet interpreted in a modern context, suggesting a dialogue between past and present. The atrium serves as a focal point, offering a central void that connects the different levels while ensuring ample daylight reaches the interior spaces. Furthermore, the integration of gardens encourages a participatory relationship with the environment, allowing occupants to engage with the cultivation of herbs and plants while promoting biodiversity.

In summary, “House in House” represents a conscious effort to merge architecture with nature, creating spaces that advocate for sustainable living and cultural practices. It emphasizes the importance of architecture as a means to enhance well-being and promote mindfulness. To gain a more comprehensive understanding of this project, readers are encouraged to explore architectural plans, sections, and designs that reveal deeper insights into its unique ideas. This investigation will provide a clearer picture of how thoughtful architectural decisions can lead to meaningful living environments that are attuned to both human needs and the surrounding ecosystem.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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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