Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Transformable Micro Home

Authors:
Lim Yen khing, Teh Adele, kai xin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define a Transformable Micro Home

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels create a resilient micro home that adapts to the needs of its inhabitants while seamlessly integrating with the tropical landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while providing a unique aesthetic.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels allow for a lightweight yet strong structure.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes internal space and water runoff.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems support sustainable living practices.
05
Movable partitions provide flexibility in spatial configuration.
The Pasangan is an architectural design project conceived as a micro home set within the tropical environment of Malaysia. The structure is approximately 25 square meters and is specifically designed to address contemporary housing challenges in urban settings. This project embodies the concept of creating efficient living spaces that harmonize with the natural landscape while ensuring comfort and functionality for its inhabitants.

The Pasangan represents a transformative approach to small-scale housing, focusing on the needs of modern occupants who seek minimalistic yet adaptable living solutions. The layout integrates essential components such as a kitchen, bathroom, and multifunctional living area. This thoughtful spatial arrangement allows residents to reconfigure their spaces according to changing needs, promoting a dynamic lifestyle within a compact environment.

Flexible Design Philosophy
A key aspect of The Pasangan is its design philosophy centered around flexibility and adaptability. The interior layout features movable partitions that enable users to customize the space based on their specific requirements. This versatility sets it apart from conventional housing models, where spaces often remain static and predefined. The emphasis on transformability not only enhances usability but also contributes to optimizing the small footprint of the micro home.

Sustainable Material Selection
The architectural design incorporates a careful selection of materials, prioritizing sustainability and environmental considerations. Wood serves as a primary material for interior finishes, creating a warm atmosphere while aligning with ecological practices. Concrete provides robustness to the foundation, ensuring durability in the face of frequent rainfall common in Malaysia. Meanwhile, steel is utilized in structural components, offering contemporary aesthetics and reinforcing the overall stability of the building. These material choices reflect a commitment to creating a resilient and environmentally responsible living space.

The Pasangan also integrates eco-friendly features, such as rainwater harvesting systems that allow for the reuse of water, enhancing resource efficiency. Additionally, the strategic placement of windows and skylights maximizes natural light, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and contributing to energy savings.

The exploration of The Pasangan reveals its architectural plans, sections, and design details. For those interested in more specific aspects of this project, examining the architectural sections can provide insights into spatial dynamics, while reviewing architectural plans offers a deeper understanding of layout and functionality. The architectural design promotes a new perspective on micro living, emphasizing the potential of compact spaces to provide a fulfilling dwelling experience.

To gain further insights into the project and its innovative approach to micro housing, explore the detailed architectural designs and related elements as presented. This will enhance understanding of the multifaceted nature of The Pasangan and its implications within the realm of modern architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 17,249 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