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Charred Wood Exterior Meets Green Roof in Compact Microhome Design

Authors:
Darla Lindberg, Trevor Berreth
Charred Wood Exterior Meets Green Roof in Compact Microhome Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with a charred wood exterior and enhanced by a green roof, the microhome is designed to promote sustainability while providing a versatile living space for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a charred wood exterior for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features a green roof that supports local biodiversity and effective rainwater management.
03
Includes a central pinhole skylight for maximizing natural light throughout the space.
04
Configured with modular systems to allow flexible use for various daily activities.
05
Designed as an off-grid home with integrated solar hydronics for energy efficiency.

The microhome focuses on sustainable living through an innovative design. It is situated within a context of global afforestation efforts, addressing ecological concerns while providing a practical space for its users. The design embodies the concept of the poche, which promotes interaction between the home and its occupants. It aims to heighten ecological awareness and improve daily living experiences.

Architecture Concept

This home is designed as an off-grid dwelling that incorporates energy-efficient solutions. The use of sun-tempered design and high-quality insulation ensures optimal temperature regulation. Solar hydronic heating and cooling systems significantly reduce energy costs and environmental impact. The layout is well-thought-out, providing comfort and maximizing space for a two-person household.

Materials

Renewable wood forms the core of the structure, offering both durability and a natural aesthetic. A green roof enhances the building's ecological profile, promoting biodiversity and assisting with rainwater filtration. The contrast between the black charred wood exterior and the lighter interior finish creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. These material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability while maintaining visual appeal.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the microhome spans 900 square feet, divided into modular areas. This organization allows different activities—sleeping, bathing, cooking, and relaxing—to take place within the same footprint. The open space of 1440 cubic feet provides flexibility, accommodating various functions as needed. Natural light plays a crucial role in the design, entering through a central pinhole skylight to create a bright and airy feel.

Transitional Elements

A folding glass façade encourages a connection between the indoors and outdoors. This feature allows fresh air and sunlight to enter the living space, marking the passage of the day. Such elements help residents engage with their surroundings, fostering a relationship with nature that enhances everyday life. The overall design promotes a lifestyle focused on sustainability while ensuring a comfortable and adaptable living environment.

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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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