Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Sustainable Urban Living

Author:
Youngjoo Kim
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Enhance Sustainable Urban Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design incorporates sustainable materials to create a versatile multi-use facility that enhances urban connectivity and promotes ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing aesthetic contrast.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural integrity and interior space efficiency.
04
Strategically placed overhangs maximize natural light and reduce heat gain.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems integrate seamlessly into the building's functionality.

The project in focus is a contemporary architectural design that successfully integrates functional spaces with innovative material use, responding effectively to its surrounding environment. This design serves as a multipurpose facility designed to accommodate a variety of uses including residential, commercial, and communal activities. The architecture aims to foster interaction among users while promoting sustainability and energy efficiency. Through deliberate spatial organization and thoughtful material selection, this project exemplifies modern architectural practices.

Visual Connectivity and Integration

One of the most striking aspects of this project is its emphasis on visual connectivity between interior and exterior spaces. Vast expanses of glazing have been incorporated, allowing natural light to permeate living areas while establishing a dialogue with the outdoors. The building's layout is designed to blend seamlessly with the landscape, and strategic overhangs provide shade while maintaining transparency. The integration of outdoor terraces not only enhances accessibility but also encourages outdoor activities, forming a cohesive relationship with nature.

Sustainable Design Elements

The project stands out due to its commitment to sustainable design principles. The use of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, significantly reduces the building's carbon footprint. Rainwater harvesting systems have been integrated into the architecture, promoting self-sufficiency. Additionally, carefully selected materials such as locally sourced stone and recycled elements contribute to the project’s minimal environmental impact. This focus on sustainability not only serves practical purposes but also reflects a growing awareness of ecological responsibility within the field of architecture.

Functional and Versatile Spaces

The internal organization of the building showcases a versatile use of space, designed to accommodate various activities. The open-plan configuration allows for flexibility, enabling areas to be adapted for different functions as needed. Distinct zones within the design cater specifically to work, leisure, and community interaction, facilitating a dynamic user experience. This thoughtful arrangement supports diverse activities and enhances social connectivity, making the architecture both functional and inviting.

To explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs for a deeper understanding of the project, interested readers are encouraged to review the detailed presentations. This exploration will provide further insights into the innovative ideas and unique design approaches that define this noteworthy architectural endeavor.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy