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Charred Wooden Shingles and Energy-Efficient Insulation in a Compact Living Space

Authors:
Ioanna Tzavella, Fay Zafiropoulou
Charred Wooden Shingles and Energy-Efficient Insulation in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and energy-efficient insulation, this compact microhome redefines modern living by seamlessly integrating sustainability with multifunctional spaces tailored for remote work.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates cross-laminated timber panels for improved structural integrity and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes vertical space and natural light.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable resource management.
05
Designed with modular furniture to adapt to various living and work scenarios.

### Project Overview
Located within an urban context that caters to the growing needs of remote workers, the microhome design emphasizes minimalism, sustainability, and adaptability. Occupying 25 square meters, the structure serves as a multifunctional space supporting both living and working activities. The intent is to cultivate a harmonious relationship between occupants and their environment, focusing on ecological responsibility while accommodating the diverse lifestyles of modern users.

### Spatial Flexibility
The microhome’s interior layout is strategically divided into zones that facilitate various modes of living, including personal leisure, shared activities, and work-related functions. This spatial strategy allows occupants to transition smoothly between different uses throughout the day. Dedicated areas for essential services—kitchen, bathroom, and laundry—are incorporated without sacrificing privacy, aligning with the preferences of young professionals seeking efficient and multifunctional living solutions. The design illustrates the versatility of the space through distinct living scenarios such as meal preparation, work tasks, and relaxation, showcasing its adaptability to users' changing needs.

### Material Sustainability
The selection of materials prioritizes both sustainability and aesthetic cohesion. Key components include Kingspan Quadcore Carrier for thermal insulation and structural integrity, Troditek Acoustic Ceiling Tile to improve acoustics, and a Slim-line Rainwater Harvesting Tank for water reuse. Additionally, the Drif-Design Cassette System enhances architectural flexibility while promoting visual continuity, and the Logi Bearing Structure provides a robust framework. These materials have been chosen for their environmental benefits as well as their capacity to create a coherent living environment that meets contemporary functional and aesthetic standards.

The design strategy further emphasizes natural light through the inclusion of large windows, drawing in outdoor vistas and reinforcing a connection to the surrounding environment. Sliding doors, green roofs, and the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels, reflect a commitment to minimizing the ecological footprint while enhancing user experience.

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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
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