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Black Glass Cube Surrounded by Vibrant Steel Frame in an Arid Landscape

Authors:
Ochirpurev Enkhbold, Ochirpurev Enkhbold, Javkhlan Chinsanaa, Ulambayr Dashtseren, Badamsuren Batsuuri
Black Glass Cube Surrounded by Vibrant Steel Frame in an Arid Landscape

Project in-detail

Set against the desert backdrop, a black glass cube, framed by a bright orange steel structure, offers a sustainable living solution that harmonizes with its environment while providing essential dwelling functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
The main structure is a black glass cube that maximizes thermal efficiency through design.
02
A bright orange steel framework creates a distinct visual contrast while adding structural support.
03
Local biodiversity is enhanced through carefully selected native landscaping around the home.
04
Passive solar systems are integrated to reduce energy consumption throughout the year.
05
Art installations surrounding the property foster community engagement and aesthetic appeal.

### Project Overview
The BLACK BOX Eco Home is situated in a desert landscape, designed to harmonize modern architectural principles with ecological awareness. The project aspires to provide a sustainable living environment while reflecting the surrounding natural context.

### Spatial Strategy and Interaction
Central to the design is a geometric black cube, characterized by its dark, reflective surfaces which absorb heat during the day and release it at night, enhancing energy efficiency. This cube is further complemented by a minimalist skeletal framework in a bright orange hue, which not only supports eco-friendly material choices but also generates a stark visual contrast against the desert backdrop. This framework promotes interaction, proposing an engaging relationship between the built form and its natural surroundings. Additionally, various artistic installations, including sculptures and landscape features, encourage contemplation of the connection between architecture and its environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices are fundamental to the eco-friendly ethos of the BLACK BOX Eco Home. The use of black glass for the cube exterior combines aesthetic appeal with insulation properties, while the lightweight steel framework is both recyclable and reduces the overall carbon footprint. The landscaping incorporates native grasses, flowering plants, and water features to enhance biodiversity and create natural cooling zones. This design approach supports sustainable living through passive solar heating and cooling strategies, rainwater collection, and the potential for photovoltaic systems, promoting a self-sufficient habitat aligned with contemporary environmental goals.

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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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