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Screws Foundation and CROSS-LAM Panels Form Compact Timber Residence

Author:
Mariluna Caligiore
Screws Foundation and CROSS-LAM Panels Form Compact Timber Residence

Project in-detail

Constructed with CROSS-LAM panels and supported by a screws foundation, this compact residence integrates sustainable design principles to function as a versatile guest house.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a screws foundation to reduce environmental impact.
02
Utilizes structural CROSS-LAM panels for enhanced insulation and strength.
03
Incorporates vertical ventilation battens for improved airflow.
04
Features an inclined VELUX skylight for natural light and energy efficiency.
05
Adopts photovoltaic INVISIBLE SOLAR-WOOD technology for renewable energy.

The Wood Guest House Modular project features a practical response to contemporary living needs by integrating modular design with sustainability. Located in a tranquil environment, the compact residence accommodates various functions, including living, working, and semi-outdoor spaces. The design emphasizes flexibility and efficiency, allowing for a strong connection to nature while prioritizing comfort and usability.

Structural Integrity

The building relies on a screws foundation, which reduces the need for conventional concrete construction. This method offers both stability and a lower environmental footprint. In conjunction with the foundation, aluminum supports are used for WPC Wood decking, creating a lightweight yet sturdy framework that underpins the structure.

Material Efficiency

The design incorporates structural CROSS-LAM panels in horizontal, vertical, and inclined configurations. These panels enhance the building’s strength and improve insulation properties. Vertical and inclined insulating panels further promote energy efficiency, ensuring that the interior remains comfortable while keeping energy use low.

Ventilation and Natural Light

Thoughtful ventilation strategies are also a part of the design. Vertical ventilation battens and inclined features work together to enhance airflow within the guest house, ensuring adequate fresh air circulation in a compact space. Furthermore, the inclusion of an inclined VELUX skylight brings in natural light, creating a bright interior and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.

Sustainability Features

Sustainable elements are integral to the design with the use of external photovoltaic INVISIBLE SOLAR-WOOD technology. This solar energy feature allows the residence to generate its own power, contributing to a lower environmental impact. The aesthetic design remains intact, aligning with the overall style of the guest house.

Attention to detail is visible in the use of vertical waterproof wooden slats for the internal finishes. This choice provides a warm and inviting atmosphere while ensuring functionality and durability in the living spaces. The result is a harmonious balance between practicality and aesthetic appeal.

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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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