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Elevated Concrete Foundations with Charred Wooden Shingles in a Wetland Environment

Author:
Alexander Silk
Elevated Concrete Foundations with Charred Wooden Shingles in a Wetland Environment

Project in-detail

Elevated above potential flooding, this structure utilizes charred wooden shingles and metal mesh to create a striking contrast with its wetland surroundings while serving as an observation and gathering space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated concrete foundations ensure stability in a wetland environment.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide natural fire resistance while enhancing aesthetics.
03
Metal mesh screens allow for natural light and ventilation without compromising privacy.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainable construction practices.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural integrity and visual impact.

## Project Overview

Located in a wetlands area, the structure exemplifies a contemporary architectural approach that respects and integrates with the surrounding ecosystem. The design contrasts angular geometric forms with the organic shapes of marshland flora, supporting ecological sensitivity while creating spaces for visitor engagement and interaction with nature.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout operates on the concept of guiding users through distinct sensory experiences from a single entrance to multiple vantage points. By organizing spaces to encourage exploration, the design fosters a connection between occupants and their environment. The elevation enhances verticality and expands views, while the strategic arrangement of various zones—including observation decks and private areas—facilitates both communal and reflective experiences.

## Materiality and Environmental Integration

The primary structural material, laminated timber, provides durability and warmth, complementing the natural setting. Metal mesh screens serve as cladding, allowing natural light penetration while ensuring privacy and visual texture. Elevated concrete foundations enhance stability in the wetland context, and strategically placed glass elements offer unobstructed views and facilitate ventilation. This amalgamation of materials enhances energy efficiency while the dynamic facade engages visitors through changing light patterns, thus solidifying the project’s commitment to sustainability and ecological coherence.

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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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