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Geodesic Dome Structures Utilizing Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles for Fire-Resistant Housing

Authors:
Laura De la torre, Karol Horr, Amy Spanos, Marina Rosolem
Geodesic Dome Structures Utilizing Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles for Fire-Resistant Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the geodesic dome design ensures fire resistance while providing sustainable housing in a wildfire-prone landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using fire-resistant charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, promoting structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes space and thermal performance.
04
Integrates defensible landscaping to minimize fire risk around living areas.
05
Designed for modular living, allowing easy adaptation for various resident needs.
The Vigilant Home project in Santa Rosa, California, is an architectural response to the urgent need for sustainable and fire-resistant housing solutions in areas prone to wildfires. This initiative emphasizes the principles of resilience and community, addressing the growing demand for safe living spaces in light of environmental challenges. Utilizing a tiny home model, the design promotes compact living while facilitating greater efficiency in land use and resource consumption.

Sustainable Housing Design
The architecture of the Vigilant Home incorporates several unique design approaches that distinguish it from conventional housing projects. A significant aspect is the application of a geodesic dome structure, which allows for increased stability in high winds and natural ventilation while minimizing exterior surface area exposed to potential fire threats. This design choice not only contributes to structural efficiency but also reduces overall energy consumption by leveraging passive heating and cooling strategies.

Moreover, the homes feature fire-resistant materials that have been specifically selected for their ability to withstand extreme temperatures and ember attack. The use of these materials, combined with a well-planned defensible space strategy, enhances the safety of the homes in the event of wildfires, ensuring that they provide a secure living environment for residents.

Integration with the Landscape
The Vigilant Home design also incorporates careful landscape planning to create defensible zones around the residences. These zones utilize fire-resistant plant species and strategic hardscaping to minimize flammable vegetation. Additionally, communal green spaces and water reservoirs are integrated into the site plan, promoting both ecological sustainability and community engagement. The thoughtful arrangement of homes within the landscape fosters a sense of community while maintaining individual privacy.

Each home is designed to optimize interior space, featuring multi-functional areas that support a minimalist lifestyle. The interiors are equipped with adaptive furniture solutions, making effective use of limited space. The architectural designs prioritize natural light and airflow, creating a comfortable living environment while reducing dependence on artificial lighting and climate control systems.

The Vigilant Home represents a significant advancement in architectural ideas aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change. By combining innovative design, sustainable materials, and community-focused planning, this project offers a practical model for future developments in fire-prone regions.

Readers interested in exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall design concepts of the Vigilant Home are encouraged to review additional materials related to the project for a comprehensive understanding of its features and philosophy.
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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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