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Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in a Nature-Integrated Wellness Space

Authors:
Lorenzo Maria Trentuno, Renzi Lorenzo, Menozzi Roberto
Curvilinear Form Enhanced by Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles in a Nature-Integrated Wellness Space

Project in-detail

Curvilinear pathways guide visitors through an ecological retreat constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, seamlessly blending wellness experiences with the surrounding forest landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design enhances flow and interaction within the space.
02
Extensive use of local materials minimizes environmental impact.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance.
04
Elevated structure reduces ground disturbance and preserves landscape.
05
Integrated courtyards foster both privacy and community engagement.

### Concept Overview
Located within a serene landscape bordered by a forest and a lake, the project invites exploration of a therapeutic spa experience. The design prioritizes social interactions by offering a range of spaces that transition from communal areas, such as a restaurant, to more private, contemplative environments within the natural setting. This focused spatial organization facilitates a variety of user experiences that are both engaging and restorative.

### Spatial Configuration
The arrangement of the spa exemplifies an organic layout characterized by flowing curves and gentle transitions, reflecting natural patterns. Pathways are designed to guide visitors through a sensory journey, connecting various therapeutic stations while encouraging an immersive experience in the landscape. Key features include:

- **Pathway Design**: Curved pathways promote an intuitive flow that leads users through spaces, enhancing the connection to the surrounding environment.
- **Courtyard Integration**: The inclusion of courtyard spaces supports relaxation and socialization, blending communal and private areas harmoniously.
- **Ecological Sensitivity**: The building's form emphasizes transparency and openness, utilizing voids and glazing to facilitate interaction with nature and wildlife.

### Materiality and Construction
The project employs a thoughtful combination of materials that reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic harmony:

- **Wood**: Locally sourced timber serves as the primary structural element, establishing a warm, organic connection to the landscape.
- **Glass**: Extensive use of glazing enhances visibility and offers expansive views, creating a continuous indoor-outdoor relationship that enriches the user experience.
- **Concrete**: This material provides necessary structural support, particularly in elevated sections, while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic consistent with the overall design philosophy.

The careful selection of materials and forms serves to minimize ecological disruption while promoting user engagement with the site.

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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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