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Bamboo Panels and Solar Integration in a Flexible Living Space

Author:
Amirali Merati
Bamboo Panels and Solar Integration in a Flexible Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing bamboo panels and integrating solar energy within a circular community layout, this microhome emphasizes adaptability and sustainability, providing efficient living space in a resource-constrained environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo panels for structural strength and environmental sustainability.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system tailored to local climate conditions.
03
Features flexible spatial configurations allowing for multifunctional use.
04
Designed with a circular community layout to enhance social interaction.
05
Integrates solar panels to promote energy independence and efficiency.

### Overview

The Microhome project is situated in resource-constrained areas on the outskirts of Liberia, West Africa. It aims to redefine living spaces through innovative design that respects and integrates cultural contexts while addressing the needs of modern inhabitants. The project seeks to create compact living arrangements that optimize functionality within a limited footprint of 25 square meters.

### Spatial Configuration

The design's spatial strategy incorporates ten configurable options, allowing for versatile arrangements tailored to diverse daily activities. Key elements include expansive living areas that encourage social interaction, designated cooking and hygiene zones, as well as efficient storage solutions that maximize the use of available space. This adaptability supports both individual privacy and community engagement, reflecting the social dynamics of the region.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Sustainable practices are central to the project, with material choices reflecting both local relevance and environmental considerations. Bamboo panels are utilized for their lightweight strength, while reinforced concrete underpins the structure to ensure durability. Solar panels are integrated to promote renewable energy use, and a rainwater harvesting system addresses local water scarcity, enhancing resilience. Each material selection serves a dual purpose—functionality and cultural significance—creating a dwelling that is both modern and contextually appropriate.

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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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