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Maximizing Northern Light in Co-Joined Residences Made of Cross-Laminated Timber

Author:
Neil Mclean
Maximizing Northern Light in Co-Joined Residences Made of Cross-Laminated Timber

Project in-detail

Co-joined residences constructed from cross-laminated timber maximize northern light and provide flexible living and studio spaces for artists and their families along the shores of Cernostes Lake.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber, enhancing sustainability.
02
Features co-joined residences allowing for shared or private living experiences.
03
Designed to maximize northern light for optimal artistic work conditions.
04
Incorporates sheltered terraces for year-round outdoor usability.
05
Situated on the shores of Cernostes Lake, providing direct nature access.

The Painters' Residence is located on the peaceful shores of Cernostes Lake, designed specifically for two painters and their families. The concept focuses on blending with the surrounding landscape, creating a space that supports communal living and individual creativity. The structure consists of two identical two-storey residences and studios that encourage collaboration while providing privacy for personal work.

Spatial Organization

The layout allows for flexible use of the living spaces, where areas can be configured for either single or joint occupancy. This adaptability means that both families can interact or enjoy their own private time as they choose. The studio spaces are designed similarly, accommodating both solo work and collaborative projects. This thoughtful organization enhances the artistic atmosphere.

Environmental Considerations

Attention to local climate conditions is a key feature of the design. The northern elevation is lower, providing protection from the strong winds that may come off the lake. Sheltered terraces are included, making outdoor spaces usable even in less favorable weather. This focus on environmental adaptation improves livability and strengthens the connection with the natural surroundings.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a central theme in the approach. Engineered wood materials, such as cross-laminated timber and mass plywood panels, are used for the structural elements. These materials were chosen for their minimal environmental impact, incorporating renewable resources and contributing to reduced embodied energy. This choice aligns with modern ecological practices and serves as a progressive approach to residential design.

The integration of green spaces adds another layer to the design. Outdoor areas encourage gardening and social interactions among residents, helping to create a sense of community while promoting well-being. The residence, with its careful layout and thoughtful responses to nature, effectively combines function with a connection to the landscape.

Large windows throughout the structure allow for plenty of natural light, improving the indoor atmosphere and framing beautiful views of the lake and surrounding area.

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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

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