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Platonised Spruce and Intensive Planting in a Sustainable Guesthouse Design

Author:
Niels Roodbergen
Platonised Spruce and Intensive Planting in a Sustainable Guesthouse Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing platonised spruce cladding and an intensive planting system, the design harmonizes with the landscape while achieving energy efficiency as a sustainable guesthouse in Umbria.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an intensive roof planting system that enhances biodiversity.
02
Incorporates platonised spruce cladding for durability and weather resistance.
03
Features a 260 mm layer of XPS thermal insulation for energy efficiency.
04
Equipped with a drainage mat to manage water effectively and prevent structural issues.
05
Designed to facilitate natural ventilation and passive cooling for occupant comfort.

The Garden of Tili is located in Umbria and represents a blend of sustainability and cultural heritage. The design thoughtfully connects the built environment with the natural landscape, creating spaces that serve both practical functions and visual appeal. Focusing on circularity, the project emphasizes reusing existing materials and ensuring that new construction can be adapted for future needs.

Roof Guesthouse

The roof guesthouse features an intensive planting system that serves multiple purposes. A 50 mm layer of mulch sits on a 135 mm light substrate, providing a foundation for plant life. A 20 mm drainage mat with integrated filter fleece manages water flow effectively. Below this, a 260 mm layer of XPS thermal insulation enhances energy efficiency. The structure's integrity is supported by a 5.5 mm three-ply seal undercoat and an 18 mm OSB panel, which includes timber wedges to facilitate drainage.

Facade Design

Platonised spruce cladding makes up the facade, which is treated with a light grey weather stain. This treatment protects the wood from the elements while providing a cohesive look. The facade's construction also incorporates battens and a wind protective layer, along with 200 mm of mineral wool insulation. This combination significantly boosts the building’s thermal performance, allowing it to fit well within its natural surroundings.

Flooring Systems

The flooring throughout the guesthouse reflects a commitment to sustainability. A 5 mm PU-cast floor includes 30% recycled plastic, minimizing the environmental impact. An 85 mm heating screed supports the floor, along with a separating layer and 20 mm of XPS thermal insulation. Together, these elements ensure comfort and energy efficiency in the living spaces while adhering to the project’s eco-friendly goals.

Porch and Structural Elements

The roof porch showcases light planting, including moss and sedum. These plants sit on a 100 mm substrate that works with a 100 mm water retention layer to manage rainwater effectively. Structural components include a 22 mm OSB panel and 400 mm platonised spruce beams, providing strength to the design while maintaining a consistent aesthetic.

On the porch floor, 20 x 115 mm floorboards made from platonised and profiled frake are used, reinforcing the project’s material unity and durability. The arrangement of spaces promotes airflow and passive cooling, allowing the design to respond to climatic conditions. This connection between indoor and outdoor areas enhances the experience of the space, inviting nature into daily life.

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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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