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Biosporin Insulation and Burnt Wood Create Sustainable Microhome Living

Authors:
Jovana Prijovic, Milica Cocic, Nina Stevovic
Biosporin Insulation and Burnt Wood Create Sustainable Microhome Living
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Using Biosporin insulation and charred wood, the microhome integrates sustainable materials to create an energy-neutral living space designed for modern comfort and efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Biosporin insulation reduces carbon footprints while enhancing thermal performance.
02
The burnt wood exterior minimizes maintenance needs and deters pests effectively.
03
Natural light is maximized through a large glass southern façade.
04
Foldable furniture enables efficient use of limited living space.
05
A rain drain chain system enhances water management and promotes landscape absorption.

The microhome residence offers a practical solution for those seeking a sustainable lifestyle. Located in diverse natural settings, it focuses on energy efficiency and effective use of space. The design prioritizes adaptability and aims to create a comfortable living environment while respecting the surrounding landscape.

Materiality

The building is primarily constructed from wood, chosen for its sustainable qualities and structural strength. The outer surface is clad with burnt wood, employing a traditional Japanese technique that enhances durability without the use of harmful chemicals. This process allows the wood to resist pests and weathering, contributing to the overall sustainability of the residence.

Insulation and Space Optimization

Biosporin serves as the insulation material, providing an ecological alternative to standard foam products. Made from the cultivation of specific fungi, Biosporin transforms wood waste into a polymer, improving energy efficiency while minimizing carbon emissions. Inside, the layout makes clever use of limited space, featuring adaptable furniture like foldable sofas with built-in tables, along with a gallery area that can function as a sleeping space.

Natural Light and Water Management

The design allows for abundant natural light through a glass façade on the southern side of the home. This technique brightens the interior and creates a welcoming atmosphere, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. Water management is also a critical aspect; the residence uses a rain drain chain to effectively direct rainwater, allowing it to absorb into the soil rather than collecting as runoff.

Energy Efficiency

Solar panels installed on the roof provide renewable energy, contributing to the residence's goal of self-sufficiency. This addition demonstrates a commitment to energy conservation and complements the overall focus on sustainability. The design emphasizes functionality while addressing resource management, ensuring that daily needs are met without excessive waste.

The architectural expression of the microhome showcases a careful balance of textures and forms. The contrast between the burnt wood exterior and the transparent glass wall creates a harmonious relationship between the inside and outside. These details enhance the living experience, making it both practical and visually pleasing.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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