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Vertical Timber Panels Supporting Off-Grid Living by Thompson Lake

Author:
Briana Decina
Vertical Timber Panels Supporting Off-Grid Living by Thompson Lake

Project in-detail

Situated by Thompson Lake, the Arden Peak Microhome utilizes vertical timber panels and off-grid systems to create a compact living space that maximizes natural light and views, supporting a sustainable lifestyle.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes narrow vertical timber panels to enhance verticality and connect with the landscape.
02
Incorporates a rainscreen cladding system for improved durability and moisture management.
03
Features solar panels and an air source heat pump for a Net Zero energy performance.
04
Designed with flexible interior spaces to accommodate various daily activities.
05
Includes subfloor storage and water collection systems to support off-grid living.

The Arden Peak Microhome is a small dwelling located on the south side of Thompson Lake in Arden, Ontario. It is designed to connect with the beauty of its natural surroundings while providing essential living space. The focus is on energy efficiency and capturing views of the northern lake. The structure utilizes southern sun exposure to enhance natural lighting and heating throughout the day.

Design Philosophy

The design centers on enhancing the experience of the landscape for its occupants. By orienting the home to take advantage of expansive views, the living areas benefit from both light and sight. The layout promotes a natural flow between the indoor space and the outdoor environment, creating a comfortable atmosphere that encourages interaction with the surroundings.

Material Selection

A key feature of the microhome is its rainscreen cladding system, which comprises narrow vertical timber panels. This choice highlights the vertical lines of the building and resonates with the tall trees and hills in the vicinity. The use of timber brings warmth and texture to the exterior, reinforcing the home's connection to nature while ensuring durability and ease of maintenance.

Sustainable Technologies

The microhome is equipped with sustainable technologies that promote Net Zero living. Solar panels installed on the roof capture renewable energy, while an air source heat pump efficiently manages temperature control. Additionally, the design includes systems for water collection and subfloor storage, which support a lifestyle that minimizes reliance on external resources. This combination of features offers a modern solution for environmentally conscious living.

Interior Configuration

The interior layout is designed for flexibility, allowing spaces to be used in different ways at different times of the day. This adaptability meets the diverse needs of its occupants and makes the most of the available space. Large windows invite natural light into the home, making the interiors feel open and welcoming, while providing ongoing views of the surrounding landscape.

The vertical timber panels serve not only as a protective outer layer but also enhance the home's presence against the backdrop of the sky, creating an ongoing relationship with the changing seasons.

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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

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