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Cork Cladding And Glulam Structure Enhancing Modular Living In Natural Settings

Author:
Matteo Casaburi
Cork Cladding And Glulam Structure Enhancing Modular Living In Natural Settings

Project in-detail

Utilizing cork cladding and a glulam framework, the design achieves a lightweight yet sturdy structure that fosters modular living in harmony with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork cladding provides enhanced thermal insulation and moisture resistance.
02
Glulam beams allow for a lightweight structure without sacrificing stability.
03
Flexible interior spaces can be easily adapted to changing user needs.
04
Incorporation of birdhouses into the façade promotes local biodiversity.
05
Elevated design minimizes ground disruption and preserves the surrounding ecosystem.

Cork A is a contemporary architectural project that embodies a sustainable design ethos while providing a versatile living environment. Focused on integrating with its surrounding landscape, this architecture project utilizes environmentally friendly materials and innovative design strategies. The project emphasizes a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, enabling occupants to experience their environment fully.

The structure features a distinctive A-frame design that optimizes both aesthetic appeal and functionality. This approach allows for efficient use of space, with a modular layout designed to accommodate varying living arrangements. The incorporation of large windows and operable louvers highlights the relationship with nature, allowing natural light to permeate the interior while providing effective ventilation.

Sustainable Material Choices

One of the defining features of Cork A is its resolution to prioritize sustainability through material selection. The primary material, cork, is celebrated for its thermal insulation properties and eco-friendliness. The choice of glued laminated timber enhances structural integrity while maintaining an overall lightweight design. Concrete is used sparingly for foundational elements, contributing to minimal environmental disruption.

Unique aspects of the project include the flexible living areas that can adapt to different user needs. The innovative shading configurations provide adaptability, allowing inhabitants to control light and reduce energy consumption effectively. This design approach stands out among conventional projects by not only meeting functional needs but also promoting user engagement with the surrounding landscape.

Integration with Nature

Cork A’s design thoughtfully incorporates outdoor living spaces, with balcony terraces enhancing the connection with nature. The elevated structure minimizes site disruption and preserves vegetation beneath. Furthermore, features such as birdhouses integrated into the façade reflect a commitment to promoting biodiversity. The project’s configuration encourages harmonization with its environment, allowing users to foster a sense of community while enjoying personal privacy.

Cork A demonstrates a comprehensive architectural approach that balances functionality with sustainability. The project showcases modular adaptability, ecological materiality, and an intrinsic link to nature. For further insights into the project’s architectural plans, sections, and overall design ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the project.

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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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