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Sustainable Home Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Author:
Margit Morris
Sustainable Home Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels define a sustainable residence designed for adaptability and energy efficiency, seamlessly blending indoor living with natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide natural weather resistance and fire protection.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while minimizing construction time.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and ventilation throughout the space.
04
A comprehensive rainwater harvesting system is integrated for sustainable water management.
05
Outdoor terraces seamlessly connect living areas to the surrounding landscape, promoting outdoor living.

### Project Overview

Located in a rapidly developing urban area, the residential structure is designed to prioritize sustainability, functionality, and adaptability. Conceived with the intent to serve not only current inhabitants but also future generations, the project incorporates features that enhance environmental stewardship and promote resilient living. Through thoughtful spatial planning and innovative materials, the design aims to provide a cost-effective and flexible solution to contemporary housing needs.

### Sustainable Design Solutions

The incorporation of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, is central to the sustainable framework of the project. These installations facilitate energy independence and reduce reliance on conventional power grids. Additionally, the architectural design emphasizes resilience by utilizing recycled materials and biotechnological solutions, which contribute to the structure's ability to adapt to climatic changes and resource availability. A robust water management system including rainwater harvesting highlights the project's commitment to addressing critical water scarcity issues.

### Modular and Adaptable Spaces

The design features a modular structure that allows for future expansions as family needs evolve. The layout supports both individual living units and larger assemblies, enhancing versatility for multi-generational living. The strategic arrangement of spaces fosters practicality, with essential living areas such as kitchens, dining rooms, and communal zones located on the ground floor, while private quarters are situated upstairs. Wide openings and the use of glass elements promote natural light and ventilation, creating a connection with the outdoor environment and enhancing the overall user experience. The design also includes multiple options for expansion, accommodating changing family dynamics without necessitating major structural modifications.

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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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