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Charred Wood Finishes and Prefabricated Steel Create a Compact Self-Sufficient Home

Authors:
Mark Allen, Yunnan Allen
Charred Wood Finishes and Prefabricated Steel Create a Compact Self-Sufficient Home

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood finishes and prefabricated steel, the design offers a compact and self-sufficient living solution that seamlessly integrates sustainability with modern functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a distinctive aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural integrity and energy efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes internal space and promotes natural light penetration.
04
Integrated hydroponic systems support local food production within the living unit.
05
Mobile construction allows for relocation, catering to diverse living environments.

## Overview

Home Micro-3 is situated in a context that addresses contemporary challenges of space utilization, sustainability, and adaptability in residential design. This project focuses on creating a modular and flexible living unit of 25 square meters that promotes self-sufficiency and environmentally friendly practices, particularly in off-grid settings. The intent is to redefine conventional home living by providing a compact solution to spatial, economic, and locational issues.

## Spatial Efficiency and Flexibility

The design of Home Micro-3 prioritizes an innovative spatial strategy that allows for multifunctionality within limited areas. The interior layout supports various living functions—sleeping, cooking, and socializing—by utilizing adaptive room arrangements. This emphasis on flexible spatial organization fosters interpersonal connections among residents and encourages community engagement, creating a living environment that is both practical and conducive to social interaction.

## Sustainable Material Choices

Material selection is crucial to the project’s commitment to sustainability. Key materials include prefabricated steel for structural support, energy-efficient insulated panels for optimal thermal performance, and expansive glass elements that enhance natural light and views. Additionally, integrated green systems such as hydroponic units contribute to local food production, reinforcing the project's ecological goals.

## Renewable Energy Integration

The design incorporates several renewable energy features, including solar panels and strategically placed wind turbines that harness natural resources for electricity generation. Rainwater harvesting systems are also included to enhance water self-sufficiency. These elements collectively aim to reduce reliance on external energy sources and minimize the environmental footprint of residents, aligning with objectives of sustainable living.

## Adaptability and Mobility

The Home Micro-3 project is inherently adaptable, allowing for relocation while reducing environmental impact. This mobility caters to diverse locations, from urban centers to remote areas. The innovative design promotes a small-scale living approach that supports ecological sustainability while engaging with local ecosystems through integrated gardening practices.

## Community Interaction Areas

The layout facilitates social interactions without compromising privacy. Outdoor communal seating areas are designed to promote neighborly engagement, essential in off-grid settings where isolation can be common. This intentional design aspect underscores the importance of fostering community connections within the living environment.

By focusing on spatial efficiency, sustainability, and community engagement, Home Micro-3 represents a forward-thinking model in residential architecture that addresses modern living challenges.

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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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