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Charred Wood Shingles and Modular Design Create Sustainable Microhomes in Urban Landscape

Author:
Martyna Kotulek
Charred Wood Shingles and Modular Design Create Sustainable Microhomes in Urban Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wood shingles and modular configurations, this microhome project optimizes urban living while fostering community interaction through shared green spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to maximize interior space and light.
04
Integrates communal gardens to promote social interaction among residents.
05
Employs rainwater harvesting systems to support sustainable water management.

## Project Overview

The "Topping Up" microhome project is situated in an urban village characterized by high-density living. This initiative aims to address contemporary urban challenges by creating a supportive micro-community that prioritizes sustainability, community interaction, and livability. The design philosophy focuses on reimagining living spaces to foster social connections through shared areas and green environments.

### Community Engagement and Spatial Configuration

The design employs a strategy of aggregation, where a series of microhomes are arranged to optimize limited urban space while ensuring personal privacy for residents. Central to this design are communal gardens, positioned between the buildings, which serve as social hubs promoting interaction and resource-sharing. These shared spaces are instrumental in transforming casual acquaintances into lasting relationships among community members.

### Material and Environmental Considerations

A carefully curated material palette reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. The extensive use of sustainably sourced wood introduces a warm aesthetic and fosters a connection to nature, while reinforced concrete ensures structural durability. Large glazed panels enhance natural light and promote a sense of openness, complemented by metal cladding for improved thermal insulation. Permeable paving systems facilitate water drainage management, supporting an integrated landscape that encourages biodiversity.

### Functional and Structural Design

The microhome layout prioritizes functionality through an open-concept design that enhances airflow and light penetration, contributing to a comfortable living experience. Each unit includes essential amenities along with private terraces and gardens that encourage active engagement with the surrounding environment. Structural elements such as photovoltaic panels and rainwater harvesting systems exemplify the project's commitment to sustainable living, further optimizing energy usage and resource management within the community.

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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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