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Charming Micro Home in Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Emphasizing Seasonal Adaptability

Charming Micro Home in Earth and Cross-Laminated Timber Emphasizing Seasonal Adaptability
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Crafted from cross-laminated timber and bentonite, this micro home expertly adapts to seasonal changes, offering residents a seamless integration with the natural landscape while providing a compact yet functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced cross-laminated timber for structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Incorporates bentonite layers for natural insulation and moisture control.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and a refined aesthetic.
04
Designed with a semi-private terrace to create an enhanced outdoor living experience.
05
Adaptable interior layout promotes multifunctionality within a compact footprint.

### Project Overview

Sauvage Minimal embodies a unique approach to micro-home living, leveraging contemporary architectural principles within a rural context. Situated in a natural landscape, the design seeks to harmonize modern comfort with the philosophy of minimalism, promoting a lifestyle that embraces both simplicity and connection to nature. The term "sauvage," translating to "wild" in French, reflects the integration of the built environment with the surrounding wilderness.

### Spatial Strategy and Flexibility

The design prioritizes fluidity and adaptability, achieved through an open layout devoid of traditional barriers such as doors and load-bearing structures. This approach fosters a spacious and versatile living area, augmented by movable furniture that accommodates various activities including dining, working, and leisure. Seasonal considerations are central to the design, with strategic placements that optimize natural sunlight and shade throughout the year. A compact kitchenette is discreetly integrated to maintain an uncluttered aesthetic while ensuring functionality. Additionally, the semi-private terrace enhances outdoor living, providing shaded relaxation areas that overlook the natural landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Sauvage Minimal emphasizes sustainable construction through the careful selection of materials that minimize environmental impact. Locally sourced wood serves as a primary material, contributing to a lower carbon footprint while enhancing the project's aesthetic appeal. Earth is utilized for its insulating properties and structural stability, while bentonite is employed to ensure waterproofing and breathability. Energy-efficient glass foam insulation and Kingspan QuadCore panels further bolster thermal performance, reducing reliance on external energy sources. The design also promotes responsible water management through alignment with natural drainage systems and incorporates recyclable and biodegradable materials to facilitate eco-friendly end-of-life processing.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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