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Translucent Polycarbonate Panels Enhance Natural Ventilation in a Timber-Framed Residential Retreat

Authors:
Ruo Shen, Yihan Zhou
Translucent Polycarbonate Panels Enhance Natural Ventilation in a Timber-Framed Residential Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing double-glazed glass panels and a plywood structure, the residence harmoniously integrates with its forested surroundings while prioritizing energy efficiency and natural light for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a unique bent A-frame design that enhances structural integrity.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
03
Features strategically placed double-glazed panels to maximize natural light.
04
Elevated design minimizes ground impact, preserving existing vegetation.
05
Employs sustainable construction methods through the use of locally sourced materials.

The Leaves House serves as a notable example of contemporary architecture that emphasizes sustainability through a thoughtful integration of design and the natural environment. Located in a forested area, the project is characterized by its organic form that reflects elements found in nature, notably resembling the shape of a leaf. This design choice not only provides aesthetic value but also aligns with the project’s commitment to minimizing its ecological footprint and preserving existing wildlife habitats.

The primary function of the Leaves House is to serve as a residential space while fostering a connection with the surrounding natural landscape. The design features an open floor plan that encourages social interaction and promotes a sense of community within the home. Large glass panels allow natural light to flood the interior spaces, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and enhancing indoor comfort through passive solar heating and natural ventilation strategies.

Unique Design Approaches to Sustainability

A key attribute that distinguishes the Leaves House from conventional residential projects is its use of environmentally responsible materials and construction practices. The incorporation of locally sourced plywood and double-glazed glass minimizes the carbon footprint associated with transportation and manufacturing. The structural framework incorporates wooden posts and insulation layers, ensuring that the building meets high energy efficiency standards. Furthermore, the integration of photovoltaic panels on the roof makes the house self-sufficient in energy production, demonstrating a successful marriage of modern technology with natural resources.

The building's elevation plays a significant role in its design ethos. Raised from the ground, the structure reduces its impact on the forest floor while providing unobstructed views of the landscape. This design not only enhances the habitation experience through panoramic vistas but also preserves existing vegetation, allowing wildlife to flourish undisturbed beneath the house.

Functional Design Elements

The interior of the Leaves House is carefully engineered to align with the overarching theme of connectivity to the environment. The design emphasizes transitional spaces, where indoor and outdoor areas merge seamlessly through expansive sliding glass doors. These features allow residents to engage directly with nature while facilitating airflow and natural light distribution throughout the home.

Architectural sections of the Leaves House reveal a focus on materials that prioritize durability while remaining eco-friendly. The translucent polycarbonate panels used in specific sections serve to diffuse light, creating gentle illumination across living areas without the need for heavy shading structures. This approach reinforces the project's commitment to sustainable design while enhancing user comfort.

The Leaves House exemplifies a modern architectural approach that emphasizes sustainable living while maintaining aesthetic integrity. Its innovative use of materials and functional design elements present a compelling case for environmentally conscious architecture. To explore the architectural plans, sections, and further design details of this project, readers are encouraged to review the comprehensive presentation available for deeper insights into its unique characteristics.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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