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Passive Design Featuring Corrugated Metal and Timber Integration for Compact Living

Author:
Shane Byrnes
Passive Design Featuring Corrugated Metal and Timber Integration for Compact Living
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Constructed with corrugated metal roofing and timber elements, this compact residence employs passive design principles to enhance sustainability while providing a functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a corrugated metal roof for durability and rainwater management.
02
Incorporates large glass panels for natural light and scenic views.
03
Features a space-saving ladder for access to the elevated bedroom.
04
Employs passive design for energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Integrates a multifunctional layout promoting flexible living spaces.

## Project Overview

Situated in Hawksnest, New South Wales, this residential design addresses the challenge of housing affordability for young Australians by proposing a compact living solution that prioritizes functionality and comfort. The intent of the project is to create a sustainable alternative that avoids the excessive footprint associated with larger homes while maximizing the usability of each space.

### Layout and Spatial Configuration

The interior layout consists of nine distinct functional areas:
1. **Dining/Lounge Area**: Designed for flexibility, this space accommodates various activities, from dining to relaxation.
2. **Kitchen and Prep**: The kitchenette optimizes usability within a compact footprint.
3. **Home Office**: An integrated workspace enhances productivity in a residential setting.
4. **Walk-in Robe**: This feature offers ample storage without disrupting the aesthetic flow.
5. **Laundry Space**: Efficiently designed for utility and accessibility.
6. **Bathroom**: A functional space that keeps essential fixtures within easy reach.
7. **Ladder to Bedroom**: A space-saving design element that leads to elevated sleeping quarters.
8. **Bedroom**: Provides a private retreat within the compact structure.
9. **Deck**: Expands living space outdoors, reinforcing the connection to the natural environment.

### External Design and Material Considerations

The structure features a corrugated metal roof, notable for its durability and aesthetic appeal, enhanced by a gentle curve that integrates with the landscape while facilitating effective rainwater drainage and insulation. Large southern-facing glass panels maximize natural light and frame views of the surrounding flora, promoting a strong visual connection with the outdoors. The wooden deck contributes warmth and supports outdoor living activities.

Material selections reflect sustainability goals and design integrity:
- **Corrugated Metal Panels**: Used for roofing, these low-maintenance materials align with modern architectural aesthetics.
- **Timber**: Likely utilized in the deck and internal fixtures, enhancing the organic ambiance of the spaces.
- **Glass**: Extensive use of glazing optimizes natural light and facilitates indoor-outdoor interactions.
- **Insulation Materials**: High-performance insulation is essential to meet passive house standards, enhancing energy efficiency.

This project exemplifies a commitment to rethinking small living through intelligent design, advocating for a lifestyle that combines comfort, sustainability, and an intrinsic connection to nature.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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