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Reclaimed Wood and Ventilated Facade Create Harmonious Lakefront Living

Author:
Alexandru v. Chirita
Reclaimed Wood and Ventilated Facade Create Harmonious Lakefront Living

Project in-detail

Positioned close to a lake, the design employs reclaimed wood and a ventilated facade system to create a residence that encourages a strong indoor-outdoor connection while accommodating the needs of two families.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes reclaimed wood for both structural elements and finishes.
02
Incorporates a ventilated facade for improved energy efficiency.
03
Designed with two private artist studios facing the lake.
04
Features an enclosed courtyard to buffer harsh winds.
05
Maximizes natural light with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout.

The design brings together modern living and the natural landscape, located close to a quiet lake. It serves as a home for two families and combines private living areas with communal spaces intended for creativity and collaboration. The design respects the existing site by maintaining the footprint of a previous structure, which helps to maximize sunlight and natural light throughout the building. The overall concept aims to create a connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding environment.

Design Concept

The design highlights a clear relationship between the building and its setting. Large windows extend from the floor to the ceiling, providing broad views of the landscape while inviting light into the living areas. An interior courtyard offers protection from strong winds and creates a welcoming outdoor space, improving the overall experience for those who live there.

Architectural Composition

The home consists of two main volumes that allow for a thoughtful balance of private and shared living. This layout enables two families to live comfortably under one roof while having their own distinct spaces. The use of simple forms reflects a connection to local farmhouses and ensures that the structure fits well within its context.

Sustainability Features

The residence utilizes a wood frame construction and includes natural insulation in the walls to enhance energy efficiency. A ventilated facade supports air circulation, helping to regulate temperature throughout the year. Photovoltaic panels on the southern side of the roof provide renewable energy, while a water heat pump system contributes to heating the home. These features highlight a commitment to sustainable design.

Incorporation of Natural Elements

One of the standout aspects is the design of the private artist studios, which are positioned to face the lake directly. This orientation not only offers inspiring views but also encourages a strong connection between indoor and outdoor living. The arrangement of the spaces ensures that the home engages with the landscape, creating a peaceful and enjoyable environment for its residents.

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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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