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Peek-a-Boo Openings in A Tilted Thatched Roof Shelter Built with SPF Lumber

Authors:
Hanbing Wu, Helia Mahdavian, Fiona Lam
Peek-a-Boo Openings in A Tilted Thatched Roof Shelter Built with SPF Lumber

Project in-detail

The tilted thatched roof, with its peek-a-boo openings and SPF lumber construction, harmonizes with the landscape to create a versatile shelter for catering and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Tilted thatched roof enhances water drainage while providing shelter for outdoor activities.
02
Peek-a-boo openings around existing trees preserve the natural landscape.
03
SPF lumber stacking method simplifies construction and minimizes labor needs.
04
Versatile design allows catering spaces to transform into secure storage areas.
05
Orientation towards the southwest maximizes sunlight and user comfort.

The design presents a thoughtful response to its surroundings, focusing on blending functionality with environmental sensitivity. Set in a location that highlights local architectural practices, the structure features a tilted thatched roof. This roof, facing southwest, plays a critical role in water drainage while providing shelter for the catering spaces and queueing areas. The overall design seeks to create a strong connection between the built environment and the nature surrounding it.

Design Concept

Minimizing disruption to the natural landscape is central to the design. The roof includes openings that allow sunlight and air to filter through, carefully positioned around existing trees. This approach protects local flora and fauna and inserts nature into the design. By adopting a minimally invasive strategy, the design reflects a respect for its environment while promoting sustainability.

Spatial Organization

The layout encourages social interaction among users. The extended roof not only offers protection from rain but also creates inviting areas for people to gather and dine. This setup fosters a community-oriented atmosphere. It also ensures comfort during various weather conditions. The design supports public engagement, allowing for flexibility in use while integrating essential service functions.

Construction Methodology

Construction is streamlined through the use of a stacking method for the main walls, incorporating local Spruce-Pine-Fir lumber. This choice enhances accessibility for builders and keeps costs manageable. The roof is organized based on light wood frame principles, utilizing a grid layout that simplifies assembly on site. This straightforward approach contributes to the overall durability and stability of the structure.

Adaptability is another important feature of the design. Each catering space comes with individual storage that can be secured when not in use. This flexibility allows the area to shift easily between public and private functions, serving different needs throughout the day.

The roof stands as a prominent feature that shelters users while offering comfortable spaces for social activities. This focus on community interaction reinforces the design’s intention to foster connections within both the immediate site and the surrounding environment.

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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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