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Cantilevered Solar Pergola in a Compact PVC Home

Authors:
Carlos Murillo, Lourdes Rodríguez, Alejandro Murillo
Cantilevered Solar Pergola in a Compact PVC Home

Project in-detail

A cantilevered solar pergola and multifunctional layout define a compact PVC home, designed to blend sustainably into the Amazonian landscape while fulfilling essential living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cantilevered solar pergola enhances energy efficiency.
02
Cross-ventilation design promotes natural airflow.
03
Integrated multipurpose furniture maximizes utility.
04
PVC construction provides lightweight durability.
05
Distinct “container wall” aids in thermal comfort.

THPUT is located in the Amazonia region of Venezuela, designed with the cultural heritage of the Pemón people in mind. The building aims to provide a compact and functional living space that blends well into the surrounding landscape. It is a representation of the lifestyle and needs of its inhabitants, emphasizing sustainability and harmony with nature.

Design Concept

The layout follows a rectangular form based on the golden ratio, measuring 3.00 by 8.00 meters. This ratio aids in creating a visually pleasing space while maximizing the utility of 24 square meters. Inside, each area has a designated role, making it easier for residents to manage daily activities within the limited space.

Material Selection

The structure is built entirely from PVC and rests on a structural steel framework. Using these materials ensures the building remains lightweight yet strong, which is essential given the humid conditions of the Amazon. PVC is durable and requires less maintenance, while steel provides the necessary support and stability. This choice of materials also aligns with environmentally friendly construction practices.

Layout and Functionality

The internal arrangement organizes space into distinct areas for cleaning, cooking, dining, and living. The design separates private and communal functions, promoting easy movement throughout the home. A central multifunctional area accommodates various uses, responding to the diverse needs of occupants while maintaining a sense of spaciousness and light.

Unique Design Features

A notable element of THPUT is the cantilevered solar protection pergola, which includes mini photovoltaic panels. This feature captures solar energy, making the home more self-sufficient. The entrance is defined by a "container wall" with large windows, enhancing ventilation and ensuring fresh air circulation, crucial for comfort in the humid climate. Inside, the furnishings are designed to serve multiple functions. For example, the sofa can convert into a bed, and the dining table plays a role as a workspace, allowing for flexible living arrangements.

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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

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