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Charred Wood and Sustainable Solutions in a Compact Living Space

Author:
Roomet Raig
Charred Wood and Sustainable Solutions in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with Yakisugi wood and equipped with advanced sustainability features, this compact microhouse offers an efficient living solution tailored for young professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with Yakisugi wood for durability and aesthetics.
02
Equipped with a solar energy system for autonomous electricity.
03
Features a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water use.
04
Includes multifunctional furniture, maximizing living space efficiency.
05
Incorporates triple-glazed windows for improved insulation and noise reduction.

Nook is a microhouse designed for young professionals, situated in a location that meets the rising need for efficient living spaces. The design focuses on modern living, emphasizing practicality while offering a comfortable and adaptable environment. With sustainability at its core, Nook combines essential amenities within a compact layout, allowing residents to experience both comfort and functionality in urban life.

Design Concept

The concept behind Nook centers on the efficient use of space and multifunctionality. The interior features a layout that allows for quick transitions between living, dining, and sleeping areas. This compact design enhances the usability of the home, with elements like a pull-down wall bed that converts the living space into a bedroom at night. This flexibility helps accommodate various lifestyles, providing a comfortable atmosphere for everyday living.

Sustainability Features

Nook prioritizes sustainable practices to create an environmentally friendly living space. Central to its design is a solar energy system that generates electricity, allowing residents to rely less on external power sources. Additionally, a rainwater harvesting system collects water from the roof, which is stored in a tank for household use. These features work together to reduce the home's ecological impact and promote a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Material Selection

Material choices contribute to the durability and appeal of Nook. The exterior is covered in thermo-treated or Yakisugi wood, providing both strength and a pleasing aesthetic. Inside, triple-glazed windows not only offer excellent insulation but also minimize noise from outside, enhancing the comfort of indoor spaces. These materials underline the home's function as a modern shelter that remains practical without sacrificing visual design.

Functional Zones

Nook clearly defines essential areas that support daily activities. The kitchen is compact yet fully equipped, featuring a sink, induction hob, compact dishwasher, and refrigerator, providing all necessary amenities for cooking and meal preparation. The bathroom includes a wall-hung toilet, sink, and shower, along with a laundry closet that has a washer and dryer. This thoughtful arrangement reflects a keen understanding of the practical needs of residents.

Another notable detail is Nook's integrated multimedia system, which includes built-in speakers and an electronic projector screen. This design consideration enhances the living experience, making it easy for residents to engage with entertainment and technology. Nook embodies a blend of modern living and sustainability, making efficient use of space while prioritizing comfort and user needs.

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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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