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Curvilinear Design Featuring Cork Insulation and Pine Cladding for Community Living

Author:
Adrien Thivolle
Curvilinear Design Featuring Cork Insulation and Pine Cladding for Community Living

Project in-detail

With its curvilinear form and the use of cork insulation alongside locally sourced pine cladding, the design supports community engagement within a sustainable residential framework.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear form enhances spatial flow and community interaction.
02
Cork insulation provides superior thermal and acoustic performance.
03
Utilizes locally sourced materials to reduce environmental impact.
04
Pine cladding offers durability while maintaining a warm aesthetic.
05
Flexible interior layout adapts to various community activities.
The "Home Sweet Zome" architectural project is situated in the Sprinla Ecovillage in Portugal. This design embodies a community-oriented approach, integrating sustainable practices with a focus on social interaction. The layout encourages collaboration among residents while remaining responsive to the natural environment.

The building features a double-curved structure that not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports functional versatility. Central to its design is a seamless flow of spaces that facilitates various activities, from private reflection to communal gatherings. The use of local materials further strengthens the project's connection to its geographical context and promotes sustainability.

Sustainable Material Choices
One of the defining aspects of the "Home Sweet Zome" is its commitment to sustainability through material selection. The exterior cladding employs pine wood sourced from local forests, providing longevity and a natural aesthetic. Glued laminated pine wood is utilized for structural elements, permitting the implementation of the innovative curvilinear shapes. Additionally, cork insulation panels enhance thermal performance and acoustic comfort, showcasing an integration of practicality with environmental awareness. Interior cladding is treated with white paint to maximize luminosity, creating an inviting ambiance throughout the interior spaces. The oak wood flooring complements the overall design, creating coherence and continuity within the project.

Community-Centric Design Approach
The unique design of the "Home Sweet Zome" manifests in its focus on fostering community relationships through its architectural form and spatial organization. The central gathering area creates opportunities for interaction, effectively encouraging social engagements within a comfortable environment. The rounded structure not only promotes openness but also echoes natural forms, aligning the building with its ecological surroundings. By considering both social and environmental factors in its design process, this project stands apart from conventional architectural solutions, emphasizing community connections in a sustainable framework.

For those interested in a comprehensive understanding of the "Home Sweet Zome," it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. These elements provide valuable insights into the methodologies employed throughout the project and showcase the thoughtful architectural ideas that shape this community-centric dwelling.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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