Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Micro Living Space

Authors:
Berkay Kars, çi̇ğdem Yaşamiş, Selvi̇han Gülbengi̇ öztaş
Charred Wood Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Sustainable Micro Living Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles and cross-laminated timber, this compact dwelling prioritizes sustainability and adaptability as a modern micro living solution.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, optimizing structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, enhancing spatial dynamics and architectural aesthetics.
04
Designed with multifunctional interiors to accommodate diverse living arrangements.
05
Integrates advanced water management systems for resource conservation.

### Overview
Located in urban settings facing housing shortages, CELL-X addresses contemporary housing needs through a focus on sustainability, adaptability, and community integration. The project aims to redefine livable space for individuals with limited resources by utilizing advanced technologies and materials that enhance efficiency and self-sufficiency, responding to urgent global urbanization challenges and economic disparities.

### Design and Spatial Strategy
The CELL-X microhome employs a vertically oriented, three-story design that optimizes land use while incorporating communal spaces on the ground level and residential units above. This layout promotes social interaction among residents and facilitates multi-functional living, with adaptable rooms and furniture that can accommodate various activities. Additionally, the project incorporates seven essential utility systems—including solar power generation, efficient ventilation, and advanced waste management—that support a self-sufficient living environment, minimizing reliance on external services.

### Material and Construction Techniques
Utilizing a hybrid construction methodology, CELL-X features a combination of cross-laminated timber (CLT) and a robust steel frame to ensure structural integrity and rapid assembly. Insulated panels enhance energy efficiency, while strategically placed glass elements allow for natural light and ventilation, aligning with biophilic design principles. The elevated structure incorporates helical screw piles for a stable foundation, addressing climate-related risks such as flooding by minimizing land disturbance and adapting to varying soil conditions. This approach demonstrates a commitment to durability and environmental stewardship through the careful selection of sustainable materials.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy