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Charred Wood Cladding and Solar Integration Define a Sustainable Compact Living Solution

Author:
Henning Friedrich Stummel
Charred Wood Cladding and Solar Integration Define a Sustainable Compact Living Solution

Project in-detail

Blending charred wood cladding with integrated solar technologies, the design offers a compact and sustainable living solution tailored for rural environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for improved thermal insulation and structural strength.
03
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems to promote self-sufficiency in rural settings.
04
Employs a bent A-frame design to optimize spatial efficiency and aesthetics.
05
Allows for flexible interior configurations through retractable furniture solutions.

## Overview
The Utility Pod is designed as a compact and adaptable living solution suitable for rural landscapes. The project addresses housing needs by integrating functionality with sustainability, leveraging eco-friendly materials and technologies to create a practical living environment that interacts effectively with its natural surroundings.

## Spatial Efficiency
Measuring 2m x 4m, the Utility Pod features a modular design that allows for ease of transportation and flexible configuration, making it applicable as a holiday home, guest accommodation, or part of a larger community setup. The interior layout is meticulously organized to optimize essential living functions, including a washroom, kitchen, and sleeping area, while maintaining a compact footprint. Key components, such as a fold-down bed and retractable kitchen, support efficient space usage without sacrificing comfort.

## Sustainable Design Elements
The Utility Pod incorporates several innovative sustainability features. A flat roof captures rainwater for domestic use, promoting eco-friendly resource management. The structure is equipped with solar panels for electricity generation, supplemented by hot water systems, reducing reliance on non-renewable resources. High-performance materials, including Kingspan QuadCore insulated panels and a steel frame, contribute to energy efficiency and durability. Additionally, recycled concrete is utilized for the footings, reinforcing the project's commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

Large transparent elements throughout the design enhance occupants' connection to their outdoor environment, offering panoramic views while allowing for adjustable natural light. These thoughtful design choices collectively promote a lifestyle rooted in sustainability and community engagement.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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