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Bamboo-Clad Vertical Living With Integrated Green Infrastructure in Compact Urban Dwelling

Author:
Bewketu Wendifraw Arifu
Bamboo-Clad Vertical Living With Integrated Green Infrastructure in Compact Urban Dwelling

Project in-detail

Bamboo-clad facades harmonize with innovative green infrastructure in a compact vertical living space designed to optimize urban dwelling efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Bamboo-clad exterior integrates planters for urban gardening.
02
Glass elevator connects all three levels, enhancing accessibility.
03
Cold-formed steel structure allows for future adaptability.
04
Rainwater harvesting system supports self-sufficient living.
05
Photovoltaic panels on the roof generate renewable energy.

### Overview

The "Elevate Micro" design is situated in an urban context where maximization of limited space is paramount. This three-story structure embodies a deliberate verticality that enhances functionality while maintaining a compact footprint. The project integrates sustainable features seamlessly, providing a modular living solution that addresses the demands of contemporary urban lifestyles.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

A strategic arrangement of spaces promotes adaptability and efficiency throughout the dwelling. The ground floor focuses on communal areas and essential utilities, utilizing multifunctional furniture that allows areas to transform according to user needs. This advancement is mirrored on the upper levels, where spaces for dining, working, and leisure are designed to foster fluid transitions. For example, the dining area can easily adapt into a workspace, reflecting the flexibility and practicality that underpin the living experience.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The structural framework employs a cold-formed steel system for durability and resilience, providing a stable yet adaptable base. Complementary bamboo cladding enhances the aesthetic appeal while contributing to the building’s environmental performance. The integration of photovoltaic cells on the roof supports energy self-sufficiency, while rainwater harvesting systems illustrate a commitment to sustainable water management. Together, these elements embody a comprehensive approach to ecological awareness, ensuring that the living environment is both functional and harmonious with nature.

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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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