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Suspended Living Spaces Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Constructed Within a Forested Setting

Author:
Jorge Cobo Susperregui
Suspended Living Spaces Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Constructed Within a Forested Setting

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and laminated timber, this suspended microhome harmonizes with its forested environment while providing a tranquil living space for residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the exterior provides natural fire resistance.
02
The design incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural stability and insulation.
03
A bent A-frame architecture maximizes headroom while minimizing material usage.
04
Suspended from trees, the structure reduces site disturbance in sensitive forest areas.
05
Adjustable facade slats offer customizable privacy and light control throughout the day.

### Overview

Located in a forested landscape, the microhome concept "A Forest for Rest" is designed to provide a distinct dwelling experience that aligns with the surrounding environment. It emphasizes themes of environmental integration, innovative material use, and user adaptability, drawing inspiration from the natural setting to enhance inhabitant interaction with the landscape.

### Structural Design & Materiality

The modular structure is composed of tubular steel profiles, allowing for flexible placement in varied topographies, including suspending from trees and positioning on slopes or above water. The facade features adjustable slats that serve multiple functions: they enhance privacy, facilitate light control, and enable a continuous connection between the interior and exterior.

**Materials Utilized**:
- **Exterior**: Steel profiles for structural integrity; glass facades to maximize light exposure and panoramic views; laminated timber panels for thermal insulation and visual appeal.
- **Roofing**: A green roof system that improves thermal regulation and integrates the structure with its natural context, alongside photovoltaic panels for sustainable energy.
- **Insulation**: Cork sheet insulation for thermal efficiency and a breathable waterproofing sheet to protect the interior from moisture, ensuring durability and comfort.

### Spatial Composition & User Experience

The microhome features a two-level layout designed for essential living functions. The main level accommodates a living area, fireplace, and adaptable furniture, while the upper level is dedicated to sleeping arrangements with designated storage. Natural light is harnessed through expansive glass panels, complemented by design elements that include shadowing features to moderate sunlight exposure.

Key design characteristics include a hanging mechanism, which enhances site selection versatility, and adjustable slats for user-controlled privacy and light modulation. Additionally, wildlife-friendly elements are incorporated to promote ecological awareness, such as visual filters that aim to reduce bird collisions. The project reflects a commitment to sustainability while fostering a harmonious relationship with its forested environment.

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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
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