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Elevated Sanctuary Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Vadym Mylostiuk
Elevated Sanctuary Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Crafted with cross-laminated timber and encased in charred wooden shingles, the design seamlessly rises above its serene lakeside setting, serving as a tranquil retreat for meditation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that provide aesthetic appeal and improved weather resistance.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that optimizes internal space and promotes natural ventilation.
04
Elevated above ground level to mitigate flood risks while offering panoramic views of the lake.
05
Equipped with a rainwater collection system that supports self-sufficiency and environmental conservation.
The Tower House represents a thoughtful exploration of architecture in harmony with its natural surroundings, nestled alongside Lake Bezdenberg. This project emphasizes a design characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a profound respect for the landscape, which serves as both a backdrop and a vital element of the overall experience. Designed as a retreat for meditation, the Tower House's primary function is to provide a sanctuary for reflection and tranquility, creating a space where individuals can reconnect with themselves and nature.

The architectural design of the Tower House features a compact, vertical structure that distinguishes it from conventional dwellings. This unique arrangement allows for a more intimate relationship with the surrounding environment, leveraging elevated viewpoints that enhance the visual connection to the lake and the forested terrain. Key features of the design include a living area, a kitchenette, and a sleeping quarter, all strategically organized within a compact footprint. The thoughtful spatial configuration fosters a sense of flow, maximizing the use of limited space while promoting comfort and privacy.

Materials play a pivotal role in the overall design narrative of the Tower House. The extensive use of wood not only adds warmth to the interior but also reflects sustainable building practices. As a natural and renewable resource, wood serves to blend the structure seamlessly into its environment. Glass facades, strategically placed, allow abundant natural light to fill the interior while providing sweeping views of the lake and surrounding forest, encouraging occupants to engage with their setting. Concrete is utilized in the foundational aspects of the design, establishing a robust base that elevates the structure above potential flooding risks while maintaining durability.

One of the unique design approaches in the Tower House involves its vertical profile, which captures the essence of the trees that surround it. By employing rounded edges and a sculptural staircase that connects the levels, the project embodies an architectural language that resonates with natural forms, creating an ethereal quality. This careful consideration of form not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also reinforces the project's introspective function, inviting occupants to ascend and discover different perspectives of their environment.

Sustainability is woven into the very fabric of the Tower House design. Incorporating passive heating and cooling strategies allows the building to maintain a comfortable atmosphere without heavy reliance on mechanical systems. Additionally, the collection of rainwater showcases an effort toward self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship, marking the project as a conscientious residential solution. The architectural decisions reflect a commitment to reducing the ecological footprint while enabling a rich interaction with nature.

The Tower House stands as a distinctive architectural project that balances living space and environmental preservation. The design encourages a lifestyle that prioritizes mindfulness and connection, characteristics that are increasingly relevant in today's fast-paced world. Its architectural plans and ideas exemplify a modern approach to creating retreats that align with the natural world.

For those interested in understanding the nuances of this project further, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide deeper insights into the intentions and innovative strategies employed throughout this creative endeavor. Such exploration offers an opportunity to appreciate not only the beauty of the Tower House but also the principles of sustainable and thoughtful architecture that inform its design.
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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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