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Reflective Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Hector Melvis Alvarez, Arleane Calderon, Ana Emilia Pineda, Fernando Amaya-hernandez
Reflective Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the design creates a harmonious environment for reflection and community engagement centered around the theme of mortality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability and structural integrity.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles that provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Features a unique bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and ventilation.
04
Integrates bioretention areas for effective stormwater management and ecological contribution.
05
Designed to encourage both private reflection and community interaction within the same space.

## Project Overview

Located in the rural setting of York, Pennsylvania, the design focuses on creating a holistic space that addresses diverse perceptions of death. The intent is to cultivate an environment that fosters both individual reflection and community engagement while integrating sustainable practices and natural elements to enhance user interaction.

## Spatial Configuration

The layout features a carefully organized grid system that encourages both social interaction and private contemplation. Buildings are arranged to facilitate natural pathways and interactive gardens, ensuring clear circulation routes that maintain the serenity of the environment. This strategic spatial arrangement not only promotes varied social experiences but also allows for moments of solitude, catering to the needs of diverse users.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs mass timber construction, providing a sustainable and aesthetically pleasing solution. This material choice contributes to environmental sustainability while offering cost-effective building strategies. Large windows and thoughtfully placed openings ensure natural ventilation and passive solar design, optimizing energy efficiency. The integration of bioswales and stormwater management systems demonstrates a commitment to ecological preservation and community interaction, further solidifying the project's sustainable framework.

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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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