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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Create a Compact Retreat in the Alps

Authors:
Quentin Menu, Pauline Chagnoleau, Suzanne Hubert Bonasera, Léa Lenain
Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Create a Compact Retreat in the Alps

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber and charred wood, this compact dwelling seamlessly integrates with the alpine landscape, providing a sustainable refuge for mindful living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with sustainably sourced cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing weather resistance.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal interior space and aesthetic appeal.
04
Integrated photovoltaic panels support energy efficiency and sustainability.
05
Positioned to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding alpine landscape.

### Project Overview

Located along the shores of Séran-Ponget in the French Hautes-Alpes, the micro home Essentia focuses on the principles of simplicity and a reconnection with nature. Designed as a refuge, the project aims to create a harmonious relationship between individuals and their environment, emphasizing sensory experiences, materiality, and sustainability. The architectural intent promotes a thoughtful examination of how spatial design can enhance the quality of life and emotional well-being.

### Spatial Efficiency and Adaptability

The design employs a compact and flexible spatial configuration, with an intelligently organized floor plan that maximizes utility and promotes ease of movement. Multi-functional spaces adapt to user needs, reflecting a contemporary trend towards minimalism and efficient living. Additionally, the architecture invites sensory interaction by incorporating strategically placed openings that facilitate natural light and ventilation, enhancing the overall living experience while encouraging occupants to engage with both their environment and one another.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Essentia's construction prioritizes sustainability through the selection of locally sourced materials and efficient building techniques. Key components include various engineered and natural wood forms, brass finishes for durability, and integrated photovoltaic panels to address energy requirements. High-performance insulation is also used to meet climatic challenges. This thoughtful approach to materiality not only respects local ecological systems but also fosters a sense of familiarity and comfort, bridging the gap between modern living and surrounding nature.

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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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