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Geometric Form Wrapped in Charred Wooden Shingles with Natural Light Play in a Regional Public Space

Authors:
Wen Jian Woo, Qiao Li Liew, Ker Neng Peh, Pin Qi Chan
Geometric Form Wrapped in Charred Wooden Shingles with Natural Light Play in a Regional Public Space

Project in-detail

The interplay of natural light within a geometric form constructed from charred wooden shingles creates a contemplative public space that invites reflection and engagement in an Arctic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances spatial dynamics while optimizing natural light.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for increased durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Strategically positioned openings frame views of the surrounding landscape, enhancing user experience.
05
Designed to withstand harsh Arctic conditions while promoting community engagement.

## Project Overview

The "Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind" architectural design is situated within an Arctic or subarctic context, engaging with the expansive landscapes typical of this region. The concept aims to create a contemplative structure that interacts with its surroundings, addressing themes of memory and the relationship between human experience and the natural world. The building aligns with the Trans-Siberian railroad, facilitating a connection with both travelers and locals, thereby reflecting cultural identities and sensory experiences in this remote setting.

## Form and Spatial Strategy

The architectural form of the structure is pyramid-like, providing both aesthetic appeal and symbolic resonance. The geometric shape suggests stability and permanence, contrasting with the surrounding fluidity of the snow-covered terrain. The pointed apex directs the gaze upward, harmonizing the interior experience with the expansive skies above and creating a distinct silhouette against the natural backdrop. The layout prioritizes public engagement, featuring essential elements such as a waiting area, information counter, and restrooms, all arranged to promote accessibility and fluid movement throughout the space.

## Material Selection and Light Interaction

Materiality plays a crucial role in defining the structure’s identity and its relationship to the environment. While specific materials are not explicitly named, the design implies an integration of wood or composite materials for the outer skin, which fosters a natural aesthetic, alongside glass for light entry and concrete for foundational stability. Textural considerations are evident, with surfaces designed to enhance light interaction, which emphasizes the passage of time and the atmospheric changes within the space. Strategic openings, both narrow and wide, are essential to the design philosophy, guiding visitors while framing views of the external landscape, ultimately enriching their experience of the building and its context.

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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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