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Elevated Rice Farming Huts Crafted from Reclaimed Timber and Charred Shingles

Authors:
Gerald Yi En Low, Yufei Ye, Chon Kei Lam, Lixu Zhang
Elevated Rice Farming Huts Crafted from Reclaimed Timber and Charred Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted from reclaimed timber and charred shingles, these elevated huts seamlessly integrate agricultural spaces within the rice paddies, promoting sustainable living and community engagement in rural Japan.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using reclaimed timber sourced from local abandoned structures.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability and visual interest.
04
Designed with integrated agricultural spaces for rice cultivation and community farming.
05
Elevated above ground level to protect against flooding while offering expansive views.
The "Shack in the Paddyfield" project is an architectural response to the pressing socio-economic challenges faced by rural areas in Japan, particularly on Urato Island, Shigama, Miyagi. Designed with a focus on micro-housing, the project aims to revitalize the local community while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. By integrating living spaces with fields of rice, the architecture not only provides shelter but also supports a lifestyle that is deeply connected to the surrounding environment.

The design represents a fusion of traditional Japanese architecture and modern sustainability principles. It aims to counter demographic decline by creating inviting, functional homes that address the needs of a shifting population. The emphasis on modular construction allows for flexibility and adaptability, accommodating residents' varying requirements while facilitating community interaction.

Unique Design Approaches

The architecture distinguishes itself through its modular design. Each unit is strategically elevated above the paddy fields, allowing for unobstructed views and minimizing the disruption of the ecosystem. The use of reclaimed timber in construction aligns the project with sustainable practices, reducing the need for new materials while fostering a connection to the local history.

Moreover, the incorporation of agricultural spaces within the living environment encourages daily interaction with farming activities, making agriculture a vital part of residents' lives. These spaces are designed for seedling, germination, and harvesting processes, streamlining the agricultural workflow and enhancing food security within the community.

Community-oriented Features

In addition to housing, the project includes communal areas that facilitate interaction among residents. Workshops and processing spaces for rice reflect the project's commitment to collaboration and shared resources. This design fosters a sense of community, enabling residents to share knowledge and skills related to agriculture and craftsmanship. The integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, underscores the project’s dedication to sustainability, helping to reduce overall energy consumption.

To further explore the architectural plans and sections that illustrate the layered complexities of this project, the reader is encouraged to engage with the comprehensive presentation of the "Shack in the Paddyfield." Detailed architectural designs and ideas provide deeper insights into this innovative approach to rural revitalization and sustainable living.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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