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Tree-Centric Residence Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Hyungjun Jung, Jieun Lee
Tree-Centric Residence Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Incorporating a central tree and utilizing cross-laminated timber panels alongside charred wooden shingles, this residence is designed to foster a seamless connection between natural elements and living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a central tree as a structural and aesthetic focal point.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
03
Features a tessellated modular layout for flexible living arrangements.
04
Employs a louver system for climate control and natural ventilation.
05
Constructed with locally sourced cross-laminated timber to minimize environmental impact.

The Embracing Tree House is an architectural design project that focuses on the integration of living spaces with nature. This residential structure is situated within a forested environment, utilizing a central tree as an intrinsic part of the design. The project aims to create a harmonious relationship between its inhabitants and the natural surroundings, emphasizing sustainability and innovative architectural approaches.

The design features a modular arrangement that follows a tessellated pattern, allowing flexibility in the organization of living spaces. The structure is designed to facilitate interaction with the environment, where natural light and air flow are prioritized. The innovative use of louvers enhances the building’s response to external climatic conditions, providing residents with control over ventilation and sunlight.

Unique Aspects of the Design

One of the most notable features of the Embracing Tree House is its tree-centered concept. Unlike traditional designs that often overlook or eliminate natural elements for structural purposes, this project incorporates the tree as a core element around which the living spaces are arranged. This approach not only preserves the tree but also enhances the overall aesthetic and ecological value of the site. The juxtaposition of solid modular units with the organic form of the tree creates a visually appealing and context-sensitive structure.

Additionally, the tessellated design allows for a functional layout that promotes community interaction while maintaining personal privacy. Each segment of the structure is designed to cater to individual needs, allowing residents the freedom to customize their living areas. This innovative layout contributes to a sense of belonging and fosters social connections amongst inhabitants.

Innovative Architectural Elements

The incorporation of a louver system is another hallmark of the Embracing Tree House. This mechanism serves to modulate light and airflow, allowing residents to adjust the indoor climate according to their preferences. The design leverages sustainable materials, likely including wood and metal, to achieve both durability and a minimal environmental footprint.

This project represents a shift in architectural thinking, where the built environment is designed to coexist with and support natural ecosystems. By prioritizing sustainability through material selection and structural design, the Embracing Tree House serves as a model for future residential designs that seek to balance human habitation with environmental stewardship.

For a deeper understanding of the Embracing Tree House project, including architectural plans, sections, and detailed design elements, explore the full project presentation. Engaging with these various architectural ideas will provide comprehensive insights into the innovative approaches employed in this design.

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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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