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Elevated Living Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles

Author:
Daniel-costin Nistor
Elevated Living Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, the elevated residence blends seamlessly into the Transylvanian landscape while providing flexible living spaces that prioritize sustainability and interaction with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Elevated design mitigates risks from local flood conditions.
04
Designed with extensive glass facades to maximize natural light and views.
05
Features an open-plan layout to encourage communal living and connectivity.

### Project Overview
Located in Poiana Mărului, Brașov County, Romania, the residential project occupies a 2,000-square-meter site within a rural village characterized by a dispersed arrangement of homes. The surrounding mountainous terrain, including the Piatra Craiului and Bucegi mountains, serves as an integral backdrop that informs the design's aesthetic and functional attributes. The project aims to achieve a harmonious integration with the landscape while maintaining a sense of privacy and connection to nature.

### Design Strategies
**Sustainability and Energy Efficiency**
The design prioritizes sustainability through the integration of photovoltaic panels, supporting energy self-sufficiency and minimizing the ecological footprint. Additionally, the extensive use of glass in the facade promotes natural light and ventilation. This strategic choice not only enhances thermal comfort but also reduces dependency on artificial lighting and climate control systems.

**Materiality and Structural Approach**
A careful selection of materials reflects both local traditions and contemporary practices. Structural timber introduces warmth and connects to heritage building methods, while metal components contribute to durability and modern aesthetics. The gabled roof and rectangular footprint resonate with traditional Romanian architecture but are elevated to reduce ground impact and enhance views. The layout encourages a seamless transition between communal and private spaces, supporting various social interactions within the living areas.

### User Experience and Site Interaction
**Interior and Exterior Connectivity**
Balconies and terraces extend the living spaces outdoors, facilitating an intimate relationship with the surrounding landscape. The design fosters a dialogue between indoor and outdoor environments, allowing residents to engage with the stunning views of the mountains and valleys. This attention to spatial configuration maximizes both functionality and comfort, creating a harmonious living experience that reflects the region's cultural context while addressing modern needs.

**Cultural Resonance**
The architectural approach acknowledges and reflects local traditions, bridging past and present. By thoughtfully incorporating elements that resonate with the Romanian rural identity and embracing contemporary design efficiencies, the project establishes a meaningful connection to its cultural heritage while promoting innovative residential solutions. This balance of tradition and modernity enhances the overall residential experience, reinforcing the building's role within the community.

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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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