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Charred Timber Cladding and Vacuum Insulation in a Compact Living Space

Author:
Stelios Psaltis
Charred Timber Cladding and Vacuum Insulation in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred timber cladding and advanced vacuum insulation, the design embodies a compact living space that efficiently caters to essential residential functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates vacuum insulation panels for superior energy efficiency.
03
Features a modular design for easy transport and assembly on site.
04
Employs cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and sustainable sourcing.
05
Includes a rainwater collection system integrated into the design.

**Overview**

The Minimum House is a contemporary architectural prototype designed to optimize spatial efficiency while addressing essential living functions: sleeping, eating, and living. Its layout is organized into three distinct zones—EAT, SLEEP, and LIVE—reflecting a commitment to minimalism and functionality suited for both urban and remote settings. Each area is systematically categorized to ensure the effective utilization of space while maintaining comfort, thereby serving as a practical solution for small households.

**Spatial Strategy**

The arrangement of the Minimum House promotes a cohesive flow among its designated spaces. The EAT zone incorporates necessary dining and cooking facilities, ensuring efficient meal preparation and consumption within a compact footprint. The SLEEP section provides a private retreat outfitted with essential amenities like wardrobes and a bed, enhancing both comfort and accessibility. The LIVE area functions as a multifunctional space for relaxation and social activities, fostering adaptability in the use of interior environments without compromising on spatial integrity.

**Materiality and Sustainability**

This project employs a selection of materials that prioritize sustainability and durability. Charred timber cladding forms a weather-resistant exterior, while the timber structure provides essential support with lightweight characteristics. Ceramic tiles are chosen for their durability and maintenance ease, complemented by double-glazed windows that improve thermal insulation and energy efficiency. Additional features include aluminum window frames for minimal upkeep, vacuum insulation panels for thermal stability, and a quartz countertop in the kitchen designed for durability.

Sustainable systems are integral to the design, with components such as a rainwater collection tank, a water boiler, and a chemical septic tank located in the service area, all reflecting a practical approach to resource management. The incorporation of roller blinds and concealed tracks further enhances light management and privacy, demonstrating a holistic commitment to user experience and environmental responsibility.

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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
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