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Asymmetrical Design with High-Performance Glass and Sustainable Timber Elements for Flexible Living

Authors:
Marco Casini, Andrea Canducci, Edoardo De cicco, Paolo Tisei
Asymmetrical Design with High-Performance Glass and Sustainable Timber Elements for Flexible Living

Project in-detail

Combining an asymmetrical form with high-performance glass and sustainable timber elements, the design offers a flexible living solution that adapts to diverse lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Asymmetrical roof design enhances solar exposure and natural lighting.
02
Integrated rainwater harvesting system promotes resource efficiency.
03
Modular components allow for rapid assembly and flexibility in layout.
04
High-performance glass minimizes heat loss while maximizing daylight.
05
Charred wooden shingles contribute to durability and fire resistance.

The presented architectural project is a modular habitation unit designed for versatility and sustainability. It embodies modern residential architecture by emphasizing the efficient use of space while minimizing environmental impact. This project is conceived as either a temporary or permanent living solution, suitable for a range of landscapes.

The structure showcases an angular geometry, which contributes to its contemporary aesthetic while facilitating optimal natural lighting and ventilation. The dwelling's layout is functional and adaptable, catering to varied lifestyles and occupancy needs. The use of modular components allows for flexibility in assembly, enabling the integration of multiple units to accommodate larger family structures or communal living arrangements.

Sustainable design principles are central to this project, with a focus on energy efficiency. The incorporation of photovoltaic panels allows for energy generation, reducing dependence on external power sources. Advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are implemented to enhance energy performance and thermal comfort. Additionally, water management strategies include rainwater harvesting, promoting resource conservation.

Unique Design Approaches

A significant characteristic of this project is its modular construction, which combines prefabricated elements with flexibility in layout. Each module can be easily transported and assembled, reducing waste and construction time. The design provides adaptable configurations that shed traditional notions of fixed living spaces. The asymmetrical roofing design enhances not only aesthetics but also functional aspects by optimizing solar exposure and improving energy capture through the adjustable shading system.

Material selection plays a vital role in the project's sustainability goals. The use of eco-friendly materials such as oriented strand board (OSB) for structural components, wood for frameworks, and high-performance insulation is emphasized. The structure's exterior incorporates aluminum elements that contribute to durability and maintenance efficiency. High-performance glazing is used in window installations to achieve maximum daylight without compromising thermal retention.

Innovative Functional Elements

The interior layout is intentionally designed to maximize the use of space, integrating multifunctional areas that can serve various purposes, including living, dining, and working functions. This flexibility is enhanced through modular furniture arrangements that allow occupants to alter the configuration as per their needs. Storage solutions are incorporated without compromising the overall openness of the living spaces.

Overall, this architecture project exemplifies a cohesive approach to modern living that prioritizes comfort, sustainability, and aesthetic appeal. To gain further insights into the architectural details, such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs, interested parties are encouraged to explore the complete project presentation. This exploration will provide a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas and functional strategies employed in this modular habitation unit.

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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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