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Sustainable Residence Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Integrated into Natural Surroundings

Authors:
Carlos Menendez, RYAN HECK, Edmund Levine, Steve Cowles
Sustainable Residence Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Wood Shingles Integrated into Natural Surroundings

Project in-detail

This thoughtfully designed residence seamlessly integrates cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, creating a harmonious dialogue with its natural surroundings while prioritizing sustainability and user comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The residence incorporates a rainwater harvesting system that minimizes water consumption and promotes sustainability.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their enhanced durability and weather resistance.
03
A biophilic design approach integrates living walls, fostering biodiversity and improving indoor air quality.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels utilized in construction provide structural strength while reducing the building's carbon footprint.
05
The bent A-frame design allows for maximized interior space and optimal natural light penetration throughout the home.
The architectural design project at hand presents a thoughtful integration of functionality and aesthetic appeal, embodying a well-considered response to its surrounding environment. This project is characterized by its modern lines and deliberate material choices, creating a harmonious balance between form and purpose. The architecture of the building serves a specific function, which is central to its design—be it residential, commercial, or institutional—each aspect of the design is meticulously crafted to accommodate the needs of its users while enhancing the overall landscape.

One notable element of the project is its layout, which optimizes space utilization and fosters interaction among users. The arrangement of rooms is intuitive, allowing for natural flow and accessibility. Additionally, the project emphasizes the indoor-outdoor connection, incorporating large windows and open spaces that invite natural light and provide panoramic views of the surroundings. This design approach not only enhances the user experience but also promotes a sense of well-being through a constant engagement with nature.

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in defining the character of the project. The building exterior features a combination of durable and sustainable materials such as concrete, glass, and timber. Concrete provides structural integrity while offering a modern aesthetic; its juxtaposition with glass allows for transparency and reflection, creating a dialogue between the building and its environment. Timber adds warmth and texture, which is especially relevant in residential applications, where a sense of comfort is paramount. The use of sustainable materials signals a commitment to environmentally responsible design, aligning with contemporary architectural values.

Unique design approaches are evident in both the building's form and details. The architectural design incorporates elements of biophilic design, which enhances the connection between people and nature. This is achieved through strategically placed green roofs, vertical gardens, and landscaped terraces that not only serve as aesthetic enhancements but also contribute to biodiversity and improve air quality. The integration of such natural elements into the architecture serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainability in modern design.

Attention to detail is reflected in the finishes and fixtures selected for the interiors, which are designed to complement the overall aesthetic while ensuring functionality. High-quality materials are evident in the flooring, cabinetry, and fittings, all of which are chosen not only for their durability but also for their ability to create a cohesive visual narrative throughout the space. The careful selection of colors and textures reinforces a sense of continuity, with subtle variations that enrich the user experience.

This project stands out through its innovative response to the surrounding context. Whether set against an urban backdrop or a more natural landscape, it demonstrates a thoughtful engagement with its surroundings. The architectural decisions made in the design reflect an understanding of both the immediate context and the larger environmental implications of construction.

Furthermore, the project exemplifies a modern interpretation of architectural ideas that focus on community and collaboration. Spaces are designed not only for individual use but also to encourage social interaction, with communal areas that foster a sense of belonging among users. These aspects are integral to contemporary living and reflect evolving patterns of behavior within urban environments, making the project particularly relevant in today's architectural discourse.

For those interested in delving deeper into the specifics of this architectural endeavor, it is encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs presented. Engaging with these materials will provide a comprehensive understanding of the project's nuances and the thoughtful architectural ideas that underpin it. By examining the various elements, readers can appreciate the full breadth of this design project and the impact it aims to create within its community.
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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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