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Sustainable Living Through Charred Wood Shingles and Solar-Passive Design Integration

Author:
Gustavo Pardo
Sustainable Living Through Charred Wood Shingles and Solar-Passive Design Integration

Project in-detail

Crafted with charred wood shingles and enhanced by solar-passive strategies, the design creates a harmonious living environment that integrates sustainable practices with a vibrant community space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal while providing natural fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainable sourcing.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space and encourages natural light penetration.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system that supports irrigation for the on-site greenhouse garden.
05
Emphasizes a community-centered approach with dedicated spaces for social gatherings, promoting interaction among residents.
The GeoPulse project presents a thoughtful exploration in the realm of architecture, encapsulating a vision that prioritizes sustainability, community, and connection to the landscape. This architectural design focuses on creating an integrated environment where buildings and nature coexist harmoniously, highlighting the importance of ecological principles within contemporary design practices. The project serves multiple functions, seamlessly combining living spaces with agricultural areas, recreational zones, and communal gathering spots, fostering an environment conducive to both individual and collective activities.

At its core, the GeoPulse project represents a commitment to sustainable living. It showcases how modern architecture can respond to pressing environmental issues by incorporating features that encourage self-sufficiency and ecological stewardship. The integration of a greenhouse garden is particularly significant, as it allows residents to engage in year-round cultivation, thereby promoting a sustainable food system and educational opportunities related to agriculture. This space emphasizes the interconnectedness of urban living and food production, which is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s society.

The design of the GeoPulse project carefully considers its relationship with the surrounding topography, employing a strategy that embraces the natural contours of the land. The main building structure utilizes a steel framework that provides robust support while allowing for open, flexible interior layouts. This approach not only maximizes the usable space within the building but also evokes a modern aesthetic that respects its environment. Complementing the steel are materials such as concrete, wood, and glass, each selected for their durability, thermal efficiency, and ability to enhance the overall sensory experience of the architecture.

Unique design approaches manifest throughout the project. The incorporation of terraced vegetation serves both an aesthetic and functional role, allowing rainwater management while creating distinct microclimates around the pool and garden areas. This thoughtful arrangement contributes to the visual appeal of the site while enhancing biodiversity. The outdoor spaces are designed to encourage interaction and engagement among residents, a reflection of the project’s broader aim to strengthen community ties.

The architectural plans and sections reveal how space is articulated to promote flexibility and accessibility. The emphasis on natural light and ventilation throughout the project is achieved by strategically placing windows and open areas, ensuring that each element serves a purpose while contributing to an overall sense of well-being. The interplay between indoor and outdoor spaces is central to the design, supporting a lifestyle that values connection to nature as much as it does to community.

In summary, the GeoPulse project exemplifies a contemporary approach to architecture that weaves together sustainability, community engagement, and thoughtful design. It serves as a model for future projects, demonstrating how mindful integration of natural systems and social functions can enhance the quality of life for residents. For those interested in the finer details of this innovative design, exploring the architectural plans, sections, and overall architectural ideas will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful deliberations and strategic decisions that shape this exemplary project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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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
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