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Natural Ventilation and Sustainable Living Within Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles

Authors:
Danica Petrović, Relja Petrović
Natural Ventilation and Sustainable Living Within Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles

Project in-detail

Characterized by its use of cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the dwelling incorporates natural ventilation techniques to create a self-sufficient living environment in harmony with its surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes the Venturi effect for enhanced natural ventilation.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water use.
03
Features large glass panels for natural lighting and outdoor visibility.
04
Constructed with a modular design for easy adaptability to various sites.
05
Employs environmentally friendly materials such as recycled cladding and charred shingles.
The Air Tunnel Microhome is an architectural project focused on creating a self-sufficient living space that emphasizes sustainability and efficiency. Designed as a compact dwelling, it integrates innovative strategies to minimize environmental impact while maximizing functionality. This project is situated within a natural landscape, highlighting the importance of harmony between man-made structures and their surroundings.

The Air Tunnel Microhome serves multiple functions, including as a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping quarters. Its design is predicated on the principles of modularity, which allows for adaptability based on the user's needs and the geographical context. The architecture leverages natural resources, employing systems that harness solar energy, wind, and rainwater to support its operations.

The layout includes an open living area that facilitates social interaction while promoting efficient use of space. The kitchen and dining area are designed to provide ample storage and functionality without unnecessary complexity. The bathroom ensures privacy while maintaining a compact footprint, and the sleeping area is positioned to benefit from daylight, enhancing the dwelling’s livability.

Innovative Design Approaches

A distinctive feature of the Air Tunnel Microhome is its implementation of the Venturi effect for natural ventilation. By incorporating design elements that enhance airflow, the microhome reduces reliance on mechanical cooling. This approach not only improves indoor air quality but also contributes to energy efficiency, effectively lowering operational costs.

The project integrates renewable energy solutions through the inclusion of rooftop solar panels, which generate electricity for the dwelling. Additionally, a wind energy system complements the solar installation, providing a dual-energy strategy aimed at ensuring the microhome’s autonomy. The rainwater harvesting mechanism further enhances sustainability by collecting and filtering rainwater for use within the home.

Furthermore, the material choices reflect an eco-conscious ethos. The structure utilizes sustainably sourced wood, durable metal elements such as galvanized steel, and expansive glass panels, allowing for natural light while providing thermal efficiency. The use of recycled materials in the cladding underscores a commitment to reducing waste and promoting environmental resilience.

Functional Details and Architectural Elements

The microhome’s architectural design prioritizes efficiency and clarity. Each space is precisely planned to ensure accessibility and ease of movement, with multipurpose areas enabling flexible living arrangements. The integration of technology into the design, such as smart home systems and energy management tools, reinforces the project’s modern approach to living space.

Unique architectural elements include the angled roof designed for optimal solar gain and water runoff, which blends seamlessly into the landscape while maintaining structural integrity. Large glass panels create visual connections to the outdoors, enhancing the spatial experience without contributing to energy loss due to substantial insulation measures.

For those interested in exploring the architectural details further, the Air Tunnel Microhome offers extensive architectural plans, sections, and design insights. Delving into these elements will provide a more comprehensive understanding of the project’s innovative design approaches and functional attributes.
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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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