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Barrel-Vaulted Shelter With Cross-Laminated Timber Construction and Renewable Energy Integration

Author:
Shane Thomas Byrnes
Barrel-Vaulted Shelter With Cross-Laminated Timber Construction and Renewable Energy Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and a barrel-vaulted design, the Microhome integrates renewable energy solutions to provide a compact living space that emphasizes sustainability and versatility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with prefabricated cross-laminated timber panels for rapid assembly and reduced waste.
02
Features a barrel-vaulted roof design that enhances natural ventilation and rainwater drainage.
03
Integrates a compact kitchen with multifunctional storage solutions tailored for limited space.
04
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for external cladding, providing durability and a unique aesthetic.
05
Equipped with solar panels to promote energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact.

### Overview

The Microhome is a contemporary residential structure designed to optimize compact living while addressing comfort and sustainability for a couple. Located in various geographical contexts, the design prioritizes adaptability to meet the changing needs of modern lifestyles, with a focus on reducing environmental impact throughout its lifecycle.

### Spatial Strategy and Interior Layout

The Microhome employs an efficient spatial strategy that incorporates multifunctional areas, maximizing usability without sacrificing comfort. The interior features a living and dining area that serves as a social focal point, seamlessly integrating with a compact kitchen for optimized functionality. High barrel-vaulted ceilings enhance the feeling of spaciousness, while strategically placed high-level windows provide passive ventilation. Key areas, including a private bathroom and a sleeping area that accommodates both a queen bed and flexible workspaces, ensure that personal needs are met without compromising the open nature of the living space.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and innovation. The exterior is clad in Kingspan's prefabricated corrugated metal panels, which offer durability and are designed for climate resilience, contributing to effective rainwater management. Structural elements utilize Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) beams, which not only provide strength but also serve to minimize the carbon footprint. Additional features include solar panels for energy generation and integrated wastewater treatment systems, promoting self-sufficiency in resource management. This combination of materials and technologies underscores a holistic approach to environmental adaptability and efficiency, allowing the Microhome to be suitable for diverse terrains and climates.

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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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