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Charred Wooden Shingles and Composite Panels in a Compact Eco-Friendly Living Module

Author:
David Huntly-Grant
Charred Wooden Shingles and Composite Panels in a Compact Eco-Friendly Living Module

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and lightweight composite panels, this compact living module exemplifies sustainable architecture designed for remote environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to reduce environmental impact while providing structural strength.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space efficiency and natural light.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
05
Equipped with both solar panels and a wind turbine to ensure energy independence.

### Overview

The Ecocabin presents an architectural design focused on sustainability and adaptability, tailored for remote and challenging environments. Integrating renewable energy systems, such as wind and solar technologies, the design addresses the needs of areas prone to extreme weather. The concept serves as a prototype for eco-friendly, mobile living modules, relevant in locations characterized by rugged landscapes, akin to those found in Iceland.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The interior layout maximizes utility through an open-space concept that includes dedicated areas for living, sleeping, and cooking. Modular furniture enhances flexibility, allowing for the reconfiguration of spaces according to user needs. Bunk beds optimize vertical space while maintaining privacy, and the kitchen is designed to be compact yet efficient with smart storage solutions. This thoughtful spatial organization promotes an adaptable living environment suitable for various functions and climates.

### Materiality and Ecological Technologies

Construction materials are selected for their performance in harsh conditions while emphasizing sustainability. Wood-based composite panels provide warmth and comfort while remaining lightweight, complemented by a reinforced aluminum framework that ensures structural integrity. The roof incorporates solar panels and a wind turbine to harness renewable energy, while high-quality insulation materials maintain internal temperature stability.

Additionally, a water collection system facilitates rainwater harvesting and recycling, supporting a circular water management approach. These features collectively demonstrate a commitment to reducing ecological footprints and enhancing self-sufficiency in remote living scenarios. The lightweight construction further facilitates ease of transport, making the Ecocabin suitable for temporary installations or as a mobile eco-resort unit.

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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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