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Yakisugi-Finished Recycled Wood Home with Sustainable Energy Solutions

Authors:
Aristarco Samuel Torres, Mariana Tostado
Yakisugi-Finished Recycled Wood Home with Sustainable Energy Solutions
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Constructed with a Yakisugi-finished exterior and recycled wood, the residence incorporates sustainable energy solutions while providing a comfortable living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using recycled wood, emphasizing sustainability.
02
Incorporates solar panels for energy efficiency.
03
Features a Yakisugi finish for enhanced durability.
04
Equipped with a water collection system for resource management.
05
Includes an Enzo Mari chair as a distinctive interior element.

The architectural design presents a thoughtful response to contemporary living needs, characterized by its minimalistic approach and practical spaces. Set within a context that values sustainability, the design effectively integrates various elements, offering an environment that supports daily life while encouraging a connection between inhabitants and their surroundings. The concept is rooted in the idea that to inhabit a space is to leave traces, inviting personal engagement and making the built environment a reflection of its users.

Design Elements

The design incorporates essential spaces, starting with the bedroom, which includes a double bed and a desk lamp. This arrangement allows for both rest and productivity, effectively catering to modern lifestyles. The bathroom is equipped with a tub, WC, mirror, sink, and faucet, covering all necessary aspects for personal hygiene and comfort.

Interior Accessories

Accessories play a crucial role in enhancing the living experience. The presence of an Enzo Mari chair, wood stool, art, rug, lamp, and table contributes to the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the interior. Each piece adds character, allowing residents to personalize their space while maintaining a cohesive design throughout.

Sustainable Features

The kitchen is designed for efficiency, including an electric stove, cooking pot, faucet, sink, and solar panels. These elements not only support cooking and meal preparation but also reflect a commitment to energy-saving practices. The use of solar panels demonstrates an awareness of environmental impact, aligning the design with sustainable living principles.

Structural Considerations

The structural framework consists of a 2" x 2" profile steel structure supported by a concrete pile foundation. This combination ensures durability and stability for the building. The exterior features recycled wood plank decking with a Yakisugi finish, which adds visual interest while promoting sustainability through reclaimed materials. Additionally, water collection systems and septic tanks indicate a responsible approach to resource management, further enhancing the design’s commitment to environmentally friendly living.

Large windows allow natural light to enter the interior spaces, creating a bright atmosphere and establishing a connection with the outdoors. The careful design of the façade helps to integrate the structure within its surroundings, balancing form and function while providing a welcoming presence in the environment.

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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.

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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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