Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sustainable Living Enveloped in Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Glazing

Author:
Amabelle Corbita Aranas
Sustainable Living Enveloped in Charred Wooden Shingles and High-Performance Glazing

Project in-detail

Nestled within a sustainable framework, this residential tower employs charred wooden shingles and high-performance glazing to create a harmonious living environment that emphasizes energy efficiency and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a distinctive aesthetic texture.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes natural light and allows for dynamic interior spaces.
04
Integrated solar panels significantly reduce energy reliance and promote self-sufficiency.
05
Community areas are designed to encourage resident interaction and foster social connections.
The Beacon is a proposed residential architectural project located in Hemel Hempstead, UK. This design emphasizes sustainable living, providing an innovative approach to luxury housing. Its primary function is to offer high-quality residential units while minimizing environmental impact. The building is envisioned as a modern spiral structure featuring a carefully articulated façade that maximizes natural light and enhances the aesthetic while maintaining thermal efficiency.

Architectural Concepts in The Beacon

The Beacon’s design integrates several unique approaches that distinguish it from typical residential projects. One notable feature is the use of high-performance glazing throughout the façade. This element allows for abundant daylight while significantly reducing energy consumption. The incorporation of rooftop gardens serves not only aesthetic purposes but also contributes to biodiversity and improves air quality, providing residents with natural green space in an urban setting.

The project also includes advanced technology such as solar panels and heat pumps. These features are designed to work in harmony, creating a self-sustaining environment for residents. The strategic placement of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations within the development encourages eco-friendly transportation options, reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

Community-Oriented Design Elements

Another defining characteristic of The Beacon is its emphasis on community engagement. The design includes shared spaces that facilitate social interactions, such as circular seating areas crafted from sustainable timber. These communal spaces foster a sense of belonging among residents, promoting a lifestyle that emphasizes connection with neighbors and the surrounding environment.

The circular dome-like feature at the center of the design is noteworthy for its multifunctionality, providing sheltered areas for leisure and activities. This element not only enhances the visual appeal but serves as a focal point for community gathering. The blend of practicality and aesthetic function positions The Beacon as an exemplar of modern living that prioritizes both individual needs and community well-being.

For further details about the project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation to gain deeper insights into The Beacon's thoughtful approach to contemporary architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,495 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy