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Bamboo Screen and Glulam Structure in a Flexible Urban Micro Unit

Authors:
Victoria Goldstein, Courtney Ward, Francisco Anaya, Gada Alhakeem
Bamboo Screen and Glulam Structure in a Flexible Urban Micro Unit

Project in-detail

The innovative use of a bamboo screen and glulam structure in this urban micro unit creates a flexible living space that operates independently from conventional energy sources.
5 key facts about this project
01
The unit integrates adjustable solar tubes for energy efficiency.
02
Bamboo screens provide privacy and reduce solar heat gain.
03
Flexible interior spaces accommodate multiple functions.
04
Glulam columns enhance structural stability and design aesthetics.
05
The design employs a compact footprint to optimize urban living.

The micro unit “Tree Hugger” is designed to operate independently from traditional power sources, set in an urban landscape. Its focus on sustainable living is evident in both its function and design. The concept revolves around creating a small yet efficient space that fosters comfort and flexibility, responding to the needs of today's city dwellers.

Design Efficiency

The unit features an adjustable terrace rack that holds solar tubes for energy collection and storage. This allows the building to use solar power, lessening its dependence on conventional electricity. By integrating renewable energy into the design, the unit reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy independence.

Spatial Optimization

Inside, “Tree Hugger” emphasizes flexible use of space. It merges areas for living, working, and leisure into one unified environment. This allows for easy transitions between activities throughout the day. Such an arrangement ensures that the sleeping area and work space adapt according to the occupant’s needs, livings in an effective and organized manner.

Material Selection

The project uses a specific list of materials, such as Glulam columns, double-pane glazing, dried bamboo, steel nail connections, and a steel substructure. These materials contribute to the building’s structural strength while also supporting energy efficiency. The addition of a wood composite rooftop pergola enhances the design through natural aesthetics and contributes to overall sustainability.

Environmental Integration

The façade incorporates a rhythmic pattern that invites natural light while maintaining privacy. This openness creates a connection between indoor spaces and the outside world. The thoughtful design addresses both functional and environmental goals, reflecting a careful balance between lifestyle and sustainability, and emphasizing the unit's thoughtful approach to modern living.

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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
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