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Residential retreat featuring sustainable cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles

Authors:
Marco Ruperto, Silvia Irianni
Residential retreat featuring sustainable cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles

Project in-detail

Nestled within its urban context, this residential retreat seamlessly blends sustainable cross-laminated timber and charred wood shingles, creating a harmonious balance between modern design and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The design incorporates a unique bent A-frame structure that enhances both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels were utilized for their strength and reduced environmental impact, providing a sustainable solution for the framework.
03
Charred wooden shingles not only serve as a striking exterior finish but also enhance fire resistance and longevity.
04
The project features an integrated rainwater harvesting system, promoting sustainable water management in the urban environment.
05
Extensive use of large glass panels maximizes natural light while offering seamless views of the surrounding landscape, fostering a strong connection to nature.
The project presents a thoughtful exploration of contemporary architecture, showcasing a design that harmonizes functionality with aesthetic appeal. At its core, this architectural endeavor emphasizes a commitment to sustainability while addressing the practical needs of its users. The project embodies a modern interpretation of space, encouraging interaction between its occupants and the surrounding environment.

The design features an open floor plan that promotes flexibility and adaptability, allowing for a variety of uses. This approach not only optimizes the spatial experience but also ensures that the architecture serves the needs of its inhabitants effectively. The layout is intuitive, guiding users through distinct areas that are seamlessly connected, fostering a sense of community while maintaining individual privacy where necessary.

A significant aspect of this project is its materiality. The design incorporates a carefully selected palette of materials, including sustainably sourced wood, reclaimed brick, and glass. The use of these materials not only enhances the visual texture of the building but also reflects an environmental consciousness that aligns with modern architectural practices. Wood brings warmth to the interiors, while brick offers durability and a connection to local craftsmanship, and glass invites natural light into the spaces, enhancing the overall ambiance.

The facade of the building is particularly noteworthy. It employs a unique arrangement of horizontal and vertical elements that create an engaging rhythm while serving practical purposes such as shading and temperature control. This design approach mitigates heat gain in warmer months and maximizes daylight penetration, illustrating a deep understanding of environmental context and site orientation. The integration of outdoor spaces, such as terraces and gardens, further strengthens the connection to nature, allowing inhabitants to engage with their surroundings in a meaningful way.

Innovative technologies are also embedded within the project, from energy-efficient systems to smart home integrations that promote sustainable living. This forward-thinking approach not only reduces the ecological footprint of the building but also enhances the quality of life for its occupants, showcasing a commitment to contemporary living standards.

The project represents a significant contribution to the architectural landscape of its geographical location, integrating elements that resonate with the local culture and climate. The site’s characteristics have been meticulously considered, ensuring that the design is both contextually relevant and responsive to its environment.

Overall, this architectural initiative exemplifies a comprehensive understanding of modern design principles, combining functionality, sustainability, and aesthetic quality into a cohesive whole. For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and broader architectural ideas incorporated into this project, a closer examination of the project presentation is encouraged to appreciate the nuances and thought processes that shaped this work.
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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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