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 Kingspan Insulation in Sustainable Modular Housing Solutions

Authors:
Kajetan Bartosz Szostok, Grzegorz Mierzwa
Charred Wood Shingles and Kingspan Insulation in Sustainable Modular Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood shingles and advanced Kingspan insulation, this sustainable modular housing solution prioritizes energy efficiency and community integration while addressing the need for affordable living spaces in urban settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize space and natural light.
04
Integrates a rainwater collection system for efficient water management.
05
Emphasizes modular construction for flexibility and rapid assembly.

### Project Overview

The Microhome initiative addresses the urgent need for affordable and sustainable housing solutions within tropical urban environments, characterized by rising population density and urbanization. This project emphasizes procedural modular urban planning to provide adaptable and environmentally conscious living spaces. By utilizing innovative design methods, including the incorporation of artificial intelligence, the project aims to foster community cohesion and enhance the quality of life for residents.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choice plays a critical role in the project's overall sustainability and performance. Key materials include Kingspan for structural components due to its excellent insulation and lightweight properties, ensuring energy efficiency. The use of durable concrete enhances the exterior’s resilience, while wood adds warmth and aesthetic appeal within interior spaces. High-efficiency glass is employed in windows to maximize natural light and thermal performance. Furthermore, integrated features such as rainwater collection systems and efficient plumbing fixtures promote self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility.

### User-Centric Design

The design of the Microhome prioritizes functionality and comfort through a minimalist aesthetic. Each unit is characterized by an open-plan layout, allowing residents the flexibility to personalize their living spaces. Key design features include integrated solar panels for renewable energy generation, large windows for natural ventilation and daylight, and designated community zones that encourage social interaction among residents. This design approach not only facilitates a harmonious living environment but also supports the development of strong social ties within the community.

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