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Residential building featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles for sustainable design

Authors:
Mohini Patel, Raffaele Festa, Ilya Dunaev
Residential building featuring cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles for sustainable design

Project in-detail

This residential building seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, creating an environmentally sensitive design that connects occupants with nature while offering modern functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The use of cross-laminated timber panels reduces construction time and enhances thermal efficiency, setting new standards for sustainable building practices.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide not only an aesthetic appeal but also improved fire resistance and durability against the elements.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior volume while minimizing the building's footprint, allowing for efficient land use in urban settings.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting systems connect seamlessly with the structural design to promote water conservation and sustainability.
05
Expansive glass curtain walls are strategically placed to optimize natural light while maintaining privacy, creating harmonious indoor-outdoor spaces.
The architectural project under analysis demonstrates a thoughtful integration of design principles and functionality, showcasing a well-rounded approach to contemporary architecture. The project reflects a commitment to responding to its environmental context, drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscape while ensuring that it serves the needs of its users effectively.

At its core, this project represents a blend of aesthetic appeal and practicality. The design is purposefully oriented to optimize natural light and enhance the overall user experience, which plays a critical role in the architectural journey. Key elements of the layout have been carefully considered. The spatial organization allows for a fluid movement throughout the interior spaces, promoting accessibility and convenience for all users.

Materiality is a significant aspect of this project, with a selection that emphasizes transparency, sustainability, and durability. The use of materials such as concrete, glass, steel, and wood speaks to a modern vernacular that prioritizes both form and function. For example, expansive glass windows not only contribute to the visual connection with the outdoors but also facilitate passive solar heating, minimizing energy costs and enhancing environmental efficiency. The concrete forms provide structural integrity and offer a sense of permanence, while wooden accents bring warmth and texture to the design, fostering an inviting atmosphere.

In addition to its practical functions, the design incorporates unique architectural approaches. The project employs principles of biophilic design, effectively connecting occupants with nature. This is manifested through green roofs, vertical gardens, or integrated outdoor spaces that encourage interaction with the surrounding environment. Such considerations enhance overall well-being, creating spaces that are not only livable but also nurturing.

Special attention has also been paid to the incorporation of communal areas within the architecture. These shared spaces serve as focal points for social interaction, fostering a sense of community among users. The design encourages collaboration and engagement, promoting a healthy lifestyle while accommodating diverse activities and gatherings. This reflection of community values within the architectural design further underscores the project's intention to create inclusive environments.

The structural elements of the design reveal the designer’s commitment to innovation in construction methods and practices. By utilizing advanced techniques, the project showcases an ability to reduce waste and streamline the building process, aligning with contemporary sustainability initiatives. This strategic approach is indicative of a broader understanding of architectural responsibility in addressing environmental challenges.

As one navigates through the building, attention to detail becomes apparent, with each architectural design decision contributing to a cohesive overall narrative. Whether through the use of color, texture, or light, every detail works in harmony to elevate the user experience while remaining firmly rooted in reality.

For those interested in a more in-depth exploration of this project, reviewing architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will provide greater insights into its comprehensive vision. These elements lay the groundwork for understanding not only the intricate details of construction but the philosophy that guided its development. Engaging with this information will further illuminate the nuances of the design and illuminate its contribution to the broader architectural landscape. Feel free to delve deeper into the project to appreciate the full breadth of its architectural achievement.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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