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Natural Brown Cedar Cladding and Green Roofing Shape a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Domi Cuoco, Duncan Campbell
Natural Brown Cedar Cladding and Green Roofing Shape a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

With natural brown cedar cladding and extensive green roofing that blends seamlessly into the mountainous landscape, this residential retreat embodies sustainable living while fostering a strong sense of community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Natural brown cedar cladding sourced locally provides warmth and integrates the structure with its surroundings.
02
Green roofing systems enhance insulation and promote biodiversity, creating a micro-ecosystem on-site.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior volume while minimizing material usage for sustainability.
04
Interior gardens contribute to improved air quality and aesthetic value throughout the living spaces.
05
A flexible layout allows for easy adaptation to changing family needs and communal gatherings.
The W.I.S.E. Home project represents a thoughtful exploration of how architecture can harmonize with the environment while addressing the contemporary needs for sustainability and community connection. This residential design is positioned within a mountainous landscape, where it effectively utilizes its surroundings to inform both its aesthetic and functional aspects. The project serves as a model for future housing solutions, showcasing how modern design can integrate eco-friendly practices and foster a sense of community.

At its core, the W.I.S.E. Home is a testament to adaptive living, equipped to meet the essential needs of its residents while minimizing its ecological footprint. The home exemplifies a self-sufficient lifestyle, relying on renewable energy sources that reduce dependency on conventional utilities. This architectural approach not only aligns with eco-conscious living but also represents a shift towards sustainable community practices.

The layout of the W.I.S.E. Home is carefully considered, promoting an inviting atmosphere that encourages interaction among occupants. The design features an open-plan kitchen that flows seamlessly into the living and dining areas, creating a central hub for family gatherings and hospitality. This spatial arrangement reflects a modern lifestyle where flexibility and connectivity are prioritized.

The exterior design of the project reinforces its relationship with nature. Using a palette of earthy tones—complemented by vast greenery and natural textures—the home effortlessly blends into the landscape. Large windows dominate the facade, providing expansive views and bathing the interior in natural light. These intentional design choices are not merely aesthetic; they serve the practical purpose of enhancing the home's energy efficiency while establishing a seamless connection between the inside and out.

Materiality plays a significant role in the overall design of the W.I.S.E. Home. Every element is selected not just for its functional benefits but also for its sustainability. Reinforced concrete is utilized for its strength and durability, while locally sourced cedar wood adds warmth to the environment, contributing not only to the home's character but also supporting local economies. The incorporation of green roofing systems promotes thermal insulation and fosters biodiversity, allowing the structure to coexist with its natural surroundings. Solar panels are strategically integrated into the design, further demonstrating a commitment to sustainable energy solutions.

Unique design approaches undertaken in this project reflect a growing trend towards eco-friendly architecture. The flexibility of the home allows it to adapt to various family sizes and needs, highlighting the importance of dynamic living spaces in today’s world. This adaptability is crucial in an era that values resilience and mobility in residential living.

Furthermore, the W.I.S.E. Home promotes community engagement through its landscaping design, which encourages interaction among residents. The shared outdoor spaces foster social connections, breaking down barriers and enhancing the sense of belonging among neighbors.

As you consider the implications of the W.I.S.E. Home project, it invites further exploration into its various architectural elements. Detailed architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas showcase the deep thinking that informed each aspect of this remarkable project. For a more comprehensive understanding of how architecture can serve both individual and communal needs while respecting the environment, I encourage you to take a closer look at the project presentation. Discover how the W.I.S.E. Home embodies a responsible and forward-thinking approach to modern living.
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Enter an open architecture
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The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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