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Cross-Laminated Timber Capsules Nestled Within A Snowy Landscape For Community Recreation

Author:
áron Kovács
Cross-Laminated Timber Capsules Nestled Within A Snowy Landscape For Community Recreation

Project in-detail

Nestled in a snowy landscape, capsules constructed from cross-laminated timber provide a multifunctional space for community engagement and outdoor recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Capsules constructed from cross-laminated timber optimize space for lodging and community activities.
02
A bent A-frame design enhances structural stability while creating a distinctive silhouette.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide weather resistance and an appealing aesthetic.
04
Geothermal heating system reduces energy consumption in the snow-covered environment.
05
Expansive glass panels promote natural light and connection to the surrounding landscape.

## Overview

The Aurora architecture project is situated in a snowy landscape, designed to integrate functionality with aesthetic appeal. The primary objective is to create a multi-functional space that caters to diverse user needs while promoting a connection with the natural surroundings. This approach encourages visitor engagement with the landscape, facilitating both recreational activities and community interaction.

## Structural Strategy

The design showcases a deliberate arrangement of timber and glass elements, emphasizing transparency and lightness. The inclusion of crisscrossed timber trusses plays a dual role, providing structural support while contributing to an elegant visual narrative. Expansive glass panels facilitate broad views of the surroundings, ensuring that the natural scenery remains a focal point throughout the interior spaces. The layout features a ground floor community area adaptable for various functions, complemented by a gallery level that includes sleeping capsules for short- and long-term visitors.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

A careful selection of materials enhances both the functionality and environmental performance of the facility. Glued Laminated Timber (Glulam) is employed for structural components, providing stability with a reduced environmental footprint. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) is utilized for walls and floors, improving acoustic properties while contributing warmth to the interior environment. The design incorporates geothermal heating systems to minimize energy consumption, and thermal insulation materials, such as rock wool, ensure comfort throughout the building. Additionally, the roof features a ventilated void that regulates indoor temperatures, reinforcing the project's sustainable approach while fostering a harmonious relationship with the local ecology.

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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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