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Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Cork Insulation and Glued Laminated Pine in Eco-Conscious Housing

Author:
Adrien Thivolle
Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Cork Insulation and Glued Laminated Pine in Eco-Conscious Housing

Project in-detail

Embracing a curvilinear design with cork insulation and glued laminated pine, this eco-conscious dwelling seamlessly integrates into its rural Portuguese setting while serving as a vibrant community hub for social interaction and shared experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features a curvilinear shape that enhances natural airflow and light distribution throughout the interior.
02
Cork insulation panels sourced from local forests contribute to both thermal efficiency and acoustic comfort within the dwelling.
03
Glued laminated pine is used extensively, allowing for expansive interior spaces without the need for traditional load-bearing walls.
04
The design incorporates modular elements that enable flexibility in usage, accommodating various communal activities as needed.
05
Outdoor terraces are seamlessly woven into the architecture, fostering a deeper connection between inhabitants and the surrounding landscape.
The architectural project located within the Spinola ecological village in eastern Portugal offers a unique approach to communal living, characterized by its thoughtful design and integration with the natural landscape. This project embodies the essence of community engagement through its innovative spatial configurations and material choices that reflect sustainability and ecological responsibility.

Representing a blend of contemporary design with traditional building principles, the Zome structure encourages social interaction while providing areas for individual reflection. The form is inspired by the organic shapes found in nature, which manifests in the design through a series of curves that extend the building into its environment. This organic architecture not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also serves practical purposes by optimizing natural light and promoting ventilation throughout the space.

The function of the Zome is multifaceted, serving as a hub for various communal activities, including workshops, gatherings, and leisure activities. The layout is designed to be adaptable, accommodating a range of uses while maintaining a sense of openness and flow. The dynamic interior spaces are created through the strategic arrangement of volumes, allowing for flexibility and fostering communal engagement among inhabitants.

A defining feature of the project is its material selection, which prioritizes sustainability and regional relevance. The exterior is clad in wooden batten pine, chosen for its natural beauty and durability, offering effective insulation while complementing the surrounding woodland backdrop. The structural elements consist of glued laminated pine wood, ensuring mechanical strength while allowing for large open spaces within the interior. Additionally, cork insulation panels are utilized to enhance thermal and acoustic properties, further aligning with ecological design principles. The interior finishes include oak flooring, which adds warmth and character to the space, contributing to a cozy atmosphere conducive to community gatherings.

The glazing incorporated into the design maximizes both light and energy efficiency, utilizing double glazing throughout. This choice not only enhances the building's thermal performance but also provides occupants with ample opportunities to connect visually with the outdoors, reinforcing the project’s relationship with its natural environment. Furthermore, the use of plywood panels for interior surfaces serves to delineate spaces subtly, ensuring that the design maintains a cohesive and inviting character throughout.

Unique design approaches adopted in this project include its innovative geometric form, which comprises 372 distinct panel faces. This complexity allows for a sophisticated interplay of light and shadow across the structure’s surfaces, creating a dynamic experience for occupants as they move through the space at different times of day. Such thoughtful consideration of light conditions demonstrates an understanding of the sensory impacts architecture can have on its users.

Moreover, the project's emphasis on community interaction is reflected in the inclusion of outdoor terraces and landscaped areas that encourage socialization and activities, further enhancing the living experience. This outdoor connection is intentional, fostering a sense of belonging and togetherness among residents.

The architectural design of the Zome not only fulfills functional requirements but also resonates deeply with the principles of community living and environmental stewardship. By incorporating local materials and sustainable building practices, this project exemplifies a modern approach to architecture that respects both its site and the community it serves.

For those interested in exploring this project further, detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs provide valuable insights into the careful thought and innovative ideas behind its conception and implementation. This project underscores how contemporary architecture can harmoniously intersect with ecological considerations and communal needs, potentially serving as a model for future developments.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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