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Curved Forms and Charred Wooden Shingles Integrated Into a Coastal Community Retreat

Authors:
Norbert Velescu, Raluca Pop
Curved Forms and Charred Wooden Shingles Integrated Into a Coastal Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Curved walls crafted from charred wooden shingles rise gracefully from the coastal terrain, creating a harmonious space that fosters community engagement while providing serene living quarters.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved walls made of charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Large glass openings create natural light while optimizing views of the coastal landscape.
04
Multi-functional communal areas promote social interaction among residents.
05
The design facilitates natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems.

### Overview
Located near Cape Raiku along the Lihan coastal area, the design emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape, integrating natural elements such as the sea, waves, and forests. The project is characterized by its distinct architectural form, which is complemented by carefully selected sustainable materials, aimed at accommodating both communal and private activities.

### Spatial Strategy
The design reflects the natural contours of the site, evoking the motion of ocean waves through its undulating shapes. The layout effectively delineates distinct zones for public and private use, fostering both interaction and accessibility. Communal areas feature multi-functional living spaces and kitchens that encourage social engagement, while private quarters are strategically positioned to offer seclusion while still maintaining sightlines to the scenic environment. Dedicated areas for yoga and meditation further enrich the spatial experience, providing tranquil environments that promote relaxation.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The project employs a structural framework predominantly consisting of locally sourced timber, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. The exterior is clad in sustainable timber, utilizing both horizontal and vertical patterns, while large windows maximize transparency and connect indoor environments with the natural surroundings. Thermal comfort is achieved through the integration of mineral wool and gypsum board within the walls. Concrete foundations are designed to elevate the building and assist with water management, reflecting careful consideration of ecological impact and operational efficiency.

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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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