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Balconies and Mezzanines Emphasizing Plywood in Efficient Micro-Dwellings

Author:
Stanislav Bebko
Balconies and Mezzanines Emphasizing Plywood in Efficient Micro-Dwellings

Project in-detail

Carefully designed micro-dwellings utilize plywood and mezzanine levels to maximize functional living space, all while emphasizing accessibility and community within a compact urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Micro-dwellings are designed with a 3.5-meter ceiling height to enhance spatial perception.
02
Each unit incorporates a private balcony that allows for additional outdoor storage.
03
The layout promotes community interaction through open common areas.
04
Modules are tailored for specific demographics, including senior-friendly features.
05
Plywood construction supports sustainability while maintaining structural integrity.

The design introduces a new way of living in London, focusing on the common issue of blank facades that leave areas feeling incomplete. The aim is to turn these empty spaces into usable living areas with micro-dwelling units. Located within a bustling urban environment, these units strive to bring life back to overlooked sections of the city while encouraging connections among those living in them.

Modular Design Approach

Different types of modular units have been developed, known as Module A, B, C, and D, each designed for specific needs. Module A is a compact 19 square meter space suitable for one or two people. Its 3.5-meter ceiling creates a sense of openness, and the mezzanine provides a raised area for sleeping. This clever use of space also allows for a bathroom placed conveniently beneath the sleeping area.

Module B is larger, at 39 square meters, and designed for small families. Its two stories provide ample space for living. The first floor follows the layout of Module A, ensuring functionality and familiarity. The second floor has a ceiling height of 2.5 meters, promoting an open environment. The design encourages social interaction and moves away from the feeling of isolation often found in residential units.

Adaptive Use of Space

Module C is intended as an office unit, suitable for less accommodating locations, such as those situated above busy roads. This flexibility is important, as it allows for mixed-use environments where workspaces can live alongside homes. By blending these functions, the design maximizes urban space while addressing the needs of modern life.

Focused on Inclusivity

Module D caters specifically to seniors, incorporating a single-story layout that features wider walkways and door openings. This careful consideration enhances mobility for elderly residents. The restrooms are designed to be accessible, ensuring that all aspects of daily life are considered.

Materiality and Sustainable Features

The choice of materials reflects an emphasis on performance and sustainability. Plywood is selected for its lightweight yet durable qualities, while wood flooring enhances warmth and comfort. A vapor barrier is included to manage moisture, and thermal insulation contributes to energy efficiency. Together, these elements create a living space that is not just functional, but supportive of its inhabitants.

Overall, the design presents a thoughtful approach to urban living. By focusing on micro-dwellings, it showcases how neglected areas can be revitalized and transformed into spaces that foster community interaction. The attention to layout and choice of materials reveals a practical vision for modern urban life, one that promotes both comfort and accessibility.

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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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