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Timber Cladding and Reused Materials in Sustainable Tea Production Housing

Authors:
Szeharlaigne Yen, Michael Sexton
Timber Cladding and Reused Materials in Sustainable Tea Production Housing

Project in-detail

Reused materials and timber cladding form the foundation of a functional living space dedicated to sustainable tea production, offering a harmonious blend of community-oriented design and ecological sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reused sheet metal roofing reduces environmental impact.
02
Dedicated spaces for tea drying and processing enhance local agricultural practices.
03
Timber panelling creates a warm interior atmosphere.
04
Open-plan layout fosters community interaction among inhabitants.
05
Utilization of a biomass heating system promotes sustainable energy use.

"ABODE" presents an architectural vision that connects human living spaces with the natural environment. Located in a forested area, the design emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. It serves multiple functions, including residential living and spaces dedicated to tea production. The overall concept promotes a lifestyle that values comfort, community, and respect for cultural practices.

Design Concept

The design focuses on integrating indoor and outdoor experiences. The layout allows for both private and communal activities, featuring bedrooms, a spacious living room, and specific areas for tea processing, which includes drying, packing, and making. By including agricultural processes within the home, the structure encourages a balanced lifestyle where productivity and relaxation coexist.

Material Selection

Materials chosen for "ABODE" reflect a commitment to sustainability while also serving practical needs. Reused sheet metal roofing offers durability and protection against the elements, reducing waste. Damp proof membranes and cellulose insulation improve energy efficiency, ensuring comfort year-round. Timber elements, such as panelling and roof rafters, bring a natural warmth to the interior, enhancing the living experience.

Structural Integrity

The integrity of the structure relies on selected materials that provide strength. Steel components, like hollow section columns and ring beams, support open spaces, allowing for a flexible interior arrangement. Enhanced durability comes from additional features like galvanized steel hooks and concrete with high strength, which ensure that the building remains resilient against environmental stressors. This focus on structural integrity contributes to the building’s longevity.

Facade and Aesthetic

The outer appearance of "ABODE" carefully aligns with its forest surroundings. Stained timber cladding and well-placed windows work together to create a visual connection with nature. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the building but also allows natural light to pour into the living areas, enriching the daily experience. The thoughtful blend of materials and design creates a lasting presence that is both functional and in tune with its 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
competition now

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