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Bactericidal Retreat Featuring Photovoltaic Energy in Urban Spaces

Authors:
Fabien Mock, Oliver Kamm, Stefan Könnecke
Bactericidal Retreat Featuring Photovoltaic Energy in Urban Spaces

Project in-detail

With its bactericidal materials and integrated photovoltaic energy, the capsule provides an innovative solution for urban relaxation and rejuvenation in an increasingly fast-paced environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bactericidal materials to enhance hygiene standards.
02
Incorporates photovoltaic cells for electrical autonomy.
03
Designed for easy transport by ground or air.
04
Offers a structured three-moment user experience for relaxation.
05
Includes an automatic cleaning system using ultraviolet light.

ECLIPSE is a modular structure designed to serve as a refuge in urban settings. Its adaptable design allows it to be easily transported by ground or air, making it suitable for placement in various locations such as parks, city squares, or on barges in river environments. The main idea is to create a space where people can retreat from the fast pace of city life and reconnect with their internal rhythms. The focus is on providing an environment that promotes relaxation and restoration, making it a valuable addition to urban well-being.

User Experience

ECLIPSE centers around a structured user experience made up of three distinct moments. The journey begins when users enter the capsule and deposit their mobile devices in a designated area. This encourages a break from digital distractions and engenders a mental shift from the outside world. After this initial disengagement, users are invited to immerse themselves in an environment designed to engage multiple senses and enhance tranquility.

Sensation Engagement

The second moment focuses on creating a calming atmosphere. Carefully adjusted lighting and ambient sounds work together to foster a sense of peace. Users are offered hot, fragrant drinks that stimulate their senses of taste and smell, deepening their immersion in the space. This sensory engagement is crafted to support relaxation, helping individuals synchronize their mental and physical states.

Gradual Re-Entry

As users prepare to leave the environment, the final moment emphasizes a gradual re-entry into their everyday lives. ECLIPSE increases both light and sound intensity, signaling to occupants that it is time to transition back. This careful approach ensures that individuals feel renewed and ready to face the outside world again. The experience effectively combines personal reflection with the realities of urban life.

Technical Integrations

The design incorporates elements that reflect a commitment to sustainability. Photovoltaic cells provide electrical independence, while weather-resistant materials ensure durability. Hygiene is also a priority, with materials that are resistant to bacteria and viruses. An automatic cleaning system using ultraviolet light beams is included to maintain a safe environment when the capsule is not in use. These features demonstrate a focus on health and comfort while aligning with contemporary sustainability practices.

ECLIPSE exemplifies how innovative design can address mental health and environmental concerns. The versatile structure can fit into various urban landscapes, serving as a much-needed sanctuary. Through thoughtful details, ECLIPSE highlights the role of architecture in enhancing quality of life in crowded urban areas.

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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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