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Rainwater Collection and Sliding Panels Enhance Sustainable Living in Engineered Wood Residence

Author:
Aleksandra Klińska
Rainwater Collection and Sliding Panels Enhance Sustainable Living in Engineered Wood Residence

Project in-detail

Combining a single-foil roof for effective rainwater collection with flexible sliding panels, the residence achieves a sophisticated balance of natural light and adaptable living space for modern homeowners.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence incorporates a single-foil roof that facilitates effective rainwater collection.
02
Sliding panel mechanisms allow for dynamic adjustments to living spaces based on user needs.
03
Large glazing is used extensively to maximize natural light while maintaining strong indoor-outdoor connections.
04
Engineered wood is featured prominently for structural supports, offering both durability and aesthetic appeal.
05
Charred wooden shingles contribute to the building's exterior, enhancing weather resistance and visual texture.
The architectural project titled "Blending Into the Sky" presents a contemporary residential design intended for a young couple, emphasizing a harmonious relationship with nature while prioritizing functionality and flexibility. This project showcases a thoughtful integration of living spaces, allowing the inhabitants to experience a seamless connection with the outdoor environment. The design reflects a modern lifestyle that values adaptability, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal, demonstrating how architecture can enhance everyday life.

At its core, the project fundamentally represents a response to urban living, where the need for open, airy spaces is balanced with the desire for privacy and comfort. The residence is constructed with a keen eye for spatial organization, comprising essential areas such as a kitchen, bathroom, and workspace, all designed to provide comfort and efficiency. The choice of materials in the project plays a pivotal role in achieving these objectives. The architectural elements utilized in the design include engineered wood, aluminum cladding, safety glass, steel frameworks, and various insulation materials. Each of these contributes not only to the structural integrity of the design but also to its visual character.

The façade of the building features large windows and glass doors, which not only serve as sources of natural light but also create a visual connection to the landscape beyond. This design choice facilitates a sense of openness and enhances the residents' living experience by allowing them to engage with the beauty of their surroundings continuously. The integration of a single-foil roof adds a practical aspect to the design. The sloping nature of the roof aids in rainwater drainage and collection, embodying principles of sustainability while enhancing the project's overall aesthetic.

One of the defining features of "Blending Into the Sky" is the innovative use of sliding panel mechanisms that allow for spatial flexibility. This feature enables the couple to adapt their living spaces according to their needs—whether to create a more open environment for socializing or to create a private nook for focused activities. This adaptability speaks to the design's emphasis on modern living, where versatility is a fundamental requirement.

The architectural approach successfully merges functionality with aesthetic simplicity. The engineered wood used in furniture not only aligns with the natural theme of the design but also serves multiple purposes, maximizing utility in smaller spaces. Furthermore, the project’s use of aluminum cladding on the exterior provides a sleek finish that complements the modern architectural language while ensuring durability against the elements.

The project's commitment to energy efficiency is evident in various aspects, including the choice of insulation materials and the incorporation of rainwater collection systems. Such elements support a sustainable lifestyle and align with increasing societal demands for environmentally responsible design practices. By focusing on energy-efficient solutions, the project resonates with contemporary values and encourages responsible living.

What sets "Blending Into the Sky" apart is its well-considered design approach that fosters a deep connection between the inhabitants and their environment. The design premise challenges traditional notions of spatial configuration in residential architecture, offering greater adaptability to the user’s lifestyle while maintaining comfort and elegance. It encourages one to rethink how architectural designs can be created to enhance daily living experiences while staying rooted in sustainable practices.

For those interested in understanding the intricacies of this architectural project further, a review of additional details such as architectural plans, sections, and various design elements will provide deeper insights into the innovative ideas that define "Blending Into the Sky." Delving into these resources will reveal the thoughtful considerations that have gone into transforming a vision for modern living into a tangible reality.
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The Architect’s 
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The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
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Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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