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Charred Wooden Shingles and Elevated Steel Frame Define a Sustainable Microhouse Solution

Author:
Eduardo Zaragoza ZuÑiga
Charred Wooden Shingles and Elevated Steel Frame Define a Sustainable Microhouse Solution

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and a resilient steel frame, this microhouse elevates sustainable living while providing adaptable, multifunctional space in a compact footprint.
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 provide structural strength and thermal efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and natural light.
04
Incorporates an integrated rainwater harvesting system for resource efficiency.
05
Elevated construction mitigates flood risk while maintaining landscape connectivity.

### Project Overview

Located in diverse environmental settings, the microhouse "Terra Refuge" addresses contemporary housing requirements through a design that adheres to principles of sustainability and eco-conscious living. The structure aims to serve various lifestyles, accommodating both recreational activities and efficient living quarters. Its elevated design provides resilience against flooding while enhancing interaction with the landscape, making it suitable for both urban and rural contexts.

### Spatial Strategy and Configuration

The microhouse features a geometric form, either hexagonal or dodecagonal, which optimizes usable interior space. This configuration allows for flexible room allocations, including separate areas for bedrooms, socialization, and utility functions. The layout prioritizes spatial quality, with large window openings designed to create an open atmosphere that connects occupants to the surrounding environment.

### Materiality and Eco-Conscious Features

The primary structural material is steel, chosen for its strength and durability, which supports lightweight design elements. Interior spaces incorporate laminated wood for flooring and ceiling finishes, lending warmth and natural appeal. Glass elements enhance natural light and maintain visual continuity with the outdoors.

Sustainability is further emphasized through the integration of renewable energy systems, including solar panels and wind turbines, alongside a rainwater harvesting system. These features enhance resource efficiency and support energy independence, aligning with the project’s eco-conscious objectives.

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

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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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