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Charred Pine Exterior With Elevated Storage in a Compact Living Space

Author:
Ines Degryse
Charred Pine Exterior With Elevated Storage in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred pine siding and elevated storage solutions, this compact living space seamlessly blends sustainability with functionality to accommodate diverse user needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred pine for exterior cladding.
02
Features elevated beds providing additional storage.
03
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainability.
04
Designed for flexible use with movable furniture elements.
05
Includes solar panels to generate off-grid electricity.

The design presents a compact and flexible space tailored to accommodate various user needs while fostering a natural atmosphere. Located in Latvia, the structure efficiently utilizes local resources and is intended to serve as a functional living area that balances privacy with communal interaction. The design concept revolves around making the best use of limited space to support different activities within one environment.



Spatial Configuration

The approach focuses on "space-saving," ensuring that every cubic meter is dedicated to specific functions. The layout features a sleeping area with individual beds, allowing for some privacy while encouraging social engagement in the shared spaces. The design elevates these beds to optimize storage, which is essential in a compact living scenario. This clever arrangement creates an inviting area that adheres to human scale and everyday living needs.



Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, prominently seen in the choice of materials. Locally sourced pine is used for construction, connecting the building to the region. The exterior is clad in charred pine siding, which provides durability and protects against UV damage, thus reducing the need for upkeep. Inside, OSB panels are utilized for their structural integrity and thermal properties. These materials work together to create a comfortable living environment throughout the changing seasons.



Functional Utilities

To enhance livability, the design incorporates practical utilities that support everyday functions. Solar panels are installed to generate electricity for lighting and outlets, allowing for a more independent lifestyle. A rainwater harvesting system efficiently manages water use, while a wood-burning stove adds warmth and cooking capabilities. These features reflect a dedication to practical sustainability, making the living space both functional and efficient.



Flexibility and Adaptability

Movable furniture elements, such as stools and a collapsible table, enable a variety of social interactions and activities. This focus on flexibility allows occupants to adjust the space according to their preferences, whether for shared meals, games, or simply relaxing. Such design details ensure that the environment can adapt to different needs, fostering a sense of community among users and enhancing the overall living experience.

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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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