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Bamboo Elevation Supporting Solar Energy in a Compact Living Space

Author:
Francesca Ligabue
Bamboo Elevation Supporting Solar Energy in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Elevated above the ground and constructed from bamboo, this compact living space integrates sliding elements and photovoltaic panels to provide adaptable functionality while promoting sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure provides underfloor mechanical and storage space.
02
Sliding mechanisms allow for dynamic reconfiguration of living areas.
03
Bamboo construction supports sustainability with rapid growth.
04
Inclined roof design accommodates integrated photovoltaic panels.
05
Large windows enhance natural light and connect interior with surroundings.

SLI.BOO is a compact design that focuses on adaptability and functionality, offering a modern solution for housing needs. Located in an environment that encourages connection to nature, the small structure takes advantage of sliding elements, allowing spaces to change according to the occupants' requirements. This design represents a fresh approach to living in smaller footprints, emphasizing user experience while being sustainable.

Architectural Concept

The main idea behind SLI.BOO is to create spaces that can serve multiple purposes. The sliding mechanisms give flexibility to key components like beds and storage, allowing them to move and change arrangement easily. This feature makes it possible for the same area to adapt for different activities such as sleeping, cooking, or relaxing, without needing to rebuild or change the structure permanently.

Spatial Organization

Inside SLI.BOO, the layout divides essential areas into a bathroom and a main room. The main room stands out due to its ability to accommodate different functions, including the kitchen, bedroom, and living space, all working together in a connected way. Large windows enhance the interior by letting in natural light and offering views to the outside. This connection with nature improves the overall feel of the living space.

Materiality and Sustainability

Bamboo is the primary material used in SLI.BOO, selected for its quick growth and eco-friendly traits. This choice supports the structural strength of the design while promoting sustainability. Bamboo adds a warm touch to the interior, reflecting a growing trend toward environmentally conscious building practices. Its use not only helps reduce the ecological footprint but also aligns with modern design principles.

Energy Efficiency

An important feature of SLI.BOO is its sloped roof, which accommodates photovoltaic panels for solar energy. This element plays a significant role in the sustainability of the structure by providing energy for daily use. The elevated design also creates useful space below for mechanical systems and storage. This practical approach improves usability while contributing to a clean and modern appearance.

The clever use of sliding elements allows spaces to shift from one function to another. One moment, the area can be a comfortable living room; the next, it can transform into a cozy bedroom. This ability to change enhances daily living and reflects a thoughtful response to how people live and interact with their surroundings.

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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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