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

Author:
Na Shen
Elevated Living Spaces with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, this elevated dwelling integrates a micro farm to enhance self-sufficiency while harmonizing with its forested surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and environmental efficiency.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes space and energy use.
04
Includes a micro farm on the lower level to promote self-sufficiency year-round.
05
Elevated above ground, providing unobstructed views and reducing land impact.

## Project Overview

Located within a forested area, the Nestship project emphasizes sustainable living and community engagement through innovative architectural design. The intent is to minimize ecological impact while fostering a strong connection between the built environment and nature. By integrating modern architectural principles with ecological awareness, the design reflects a growing emphasis on sustainability in contemporary living.

## Spatial Organization and User Functionality

The Nestship comprises three distinct levels, each tailored to specific functions aligned with modern living while maintaining a connection to the outside environment.

### Top Level: Sleeping and Meditation Space
This upper level prioritizes tranquility and relaxation. It features sleeping quarters with large windows that enhance the connection to the arboreal surroundings, creating a serene atmosphere for rest and mindfulness.

### Middle Level: Living, Kitchen, and Working Space
Functioning as the core of daily activities, the middle level includes a kitchen, living area, and bathroom. An open layout promotes social interaction, while expansive, south-facing windows leverage passive solar gain, allowing natural light to regulate the internal climate.

### Bottom Level: Micro Farm Space
The lower level is dedicated to sustainability, featuring a micro farm that can operate year-round. This innovative space not only supports food production but also reinforces the project's commitment to ecological principles.

## Material Selection and Environmental Integration

A commitment to sustainable materials is evident throughout the Nestship, with timber serving as the primary structural and aesthetic element. Other materials include insulated metal panels for energy efficiency and durability, alongside solar panels that contribute to the building's self-sufficiency.

The design also incorporates strategic features such as operating windows for passive ventilation, acoustic panels to enhance indoor sound quality, and skylights that maximize natural illumination. An adaptive façade system allows the structure to optimize performance according to the local climate, while advanced structural technologies, including a single pole system and simplified roller bearings, ensure stability and resilience. The project demonstrates a thoughtful approach to integrating human habitation within a natural context, emphasizing the importance of ecological responsibility in architectural design.

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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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