Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles Yielding Harmony in Earth-Integrated Community Spaces

Author:
Aarif Ahmad
Charred Wooden Shingles Yielding Harmony in Earth-Integrated Community Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and local brick, this community-focused initiative integrates seamlessly into the valley terrain, promoting shared agricultural and residential spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced brick and timber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Features an innovative bent A-frame design for structural efficiency.
03
Incorporates permeable landscaping to support local biodiversity.
04
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
05
Encourages community interaction through strategically placed communal gardens.
The Valley of Earth project is an architectural venture designed to seamlessly integrate with its surrounding landscape, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. Located within a fertile valley, the design addresses both functional and aesthetic needs while promoting ecological harmony. This project provides spaces for residential living, communal activities, and agricultural practices, reflecting a commitment to environmental stewardship.

The architecture is characterized by a careful analysis of the site's geographical and ecological context. The arrangement of structures is dictated by the terrain, utilizing organic shapes that mirror natural forms. The design features distinct zones for different purposes, including communal areas, private residences, and productive agricultural spaces.

Innovative Material Selections

A key aspect of this project is its thoughtful selection of materials. The use of brick offers structural stability and thermal efficiency, while concrete forms the foundational elements. The incorporation of glass is significant, as it promotes natural light and visual connections to the outside environment. Natural wood elements provide warmth and texture, enhancing both the interior and exterior spaces. Additionally, the landscape features native plant species chosen for their ecological benefits, fostering biodiversity and promoting self-sufficiency within the community.

Integrated Spatial Organization

The spatial organization is designed to facilitate interaction among residents and encourage agricultural participation. Courtyards and gardens serve as focal points, enhancing the accessibility of communal spaces. The layering of these spaces allows for a gradient of privacy, catering to the varying needs of occupants. Openings throughout the design are strategically placed to optimize air circulation and light penetration, contributing to the thermal comfort of the living spaces.

The Valley of Earth distinguishes itself through its focus on sustainability and ecological integration. The approach to design goes beyond mere aesthetic considerations; it establishes a framework for residents to engage with their environment actively. Features such as perforated roofs enable light modulation while supporting the structural integrity of the project. This attention to detail emphasizes the relationship between the architecture and its natural surroundings.

The Valley of Earth project represents a forward-thinking approach to residential and communal design, integrating sustainable practices with community engagement. To understand more about its architectural plans, sections, and ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its design methodologies and outcomes.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy