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Nesting Structure Clad in Charred Wood Shingles Offering Elevated Observational Vantage Points

Author:
Cecilia Morosi
Nesting Structure Clad in Charred Wood Shingles Offering Elevated Observational Vantage Points

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles, the structure incorporates strategically placed observation loopholes that enhance the interaction with its natural surroundings while serving as a contemplative space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the design enhances durability and integrates with the natural environment.
02
Strategically placed observation loopholes provide focused viewpoints, inviting immersive engagement with the landscape.
03
The bent A-frame structure creates dynamic internal spaces while facilitating airflow and light penetration.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to a lightweight yet robust framework, optimizing sustainability.
05
Gradual slopes allow for seamless transitions between levels, enhancing accessibility and user experience.

### Overview

Located at a waterfront site, the design emphasizes interaction with the surrounding wilderness. The intent is to create a space that invites active engagement with the natural environment, offering new perspectives through carefully considered architectural interventions.

### Spatial Strategy

The project features a contoured slope that provides gradual access to a roof observatory, enhancing safety while preserving unobstructed views. Visitors are guided through the structure using ladders and sheltered stairwells, ensuring ease of movement while maintaining the immersive experience of the site. Observation points are strategically placed to facilitate focused engagement with specific landscape elements, catering to diverse user needs, including photographers and naturalists. This approach promotes not only exploration but also an intimate connection with the environment.

### Material Selection

Material choices reflect a commitment to ecological sensitivity and aesthetic coherence. Wood is employed for its warmth, serving both structural and surface functions, while enhancing the sensory experience with its unique grain patterns. Minimal use of concrete provides structural integrity in observatory spaces, contrasting with the wood and creating a dialogue between natural and constructed forms. These materials underscore the project's objective of fostering an immersive experience, aligning the built environment with its natural 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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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