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Charred Wooden Shingles and Polycarbonate Panels in Sustainable Compact Living Spaces

Author:
Sergii Gubar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Polycarbonate Panels in Sustainable Compact Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and transparent polycarbonate panels, the design promotes energy efficiency and sustainable living while maximizing interaction with the surrounding landscape in a compact, multifunctional home.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features large polycarbonate panels that maximize natural light while providing insulation.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system to promote water conservation and self-sufficiency.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure to improve aerodynamics and snow shedding in snowy climates.

### Project Overview
The Microhome design project comprises two models: Microhome Large and Microhome Small, aimed at addressing the demand for sustainable, efficient, and compact living environments. Located in a snowy landscape that underscores the need for functional shelter, these homes highlight innovative architectural solutions suitable for diverse climates and terrains, with an emphasis on minimal environmental impact.

### Spatial Efficiency and Adaptability
Both models feature modular designs tailored to maximize usability within a small footprint. Microhome Large, measuring 5.6 meters by 5.6 meters and reaching a height of 3.6 meters, includes designated areas for living, working, cooking, and bathing, all organized for compactness. The entrance area is multifunctional, incorporating storage solutions to ensure ease of access. The Microhome Small retains similar dimensions and layout, scaled for efficiency while featuring strategic placements for sleeping and communal spaces, facilitating mobility within its compact design.

### Material and Energy Considerations
The Microhome employs a combination of durable, eco-friendly materials such as Kingston (IS 1100-100) for cladding, transparent polycarbonate panels for enhanced lighting, and wooden shingles that provide insulation. Both models integrate renewable energy systems, including solar panels and rainwater harvesting, reinforcing their sustainability. The interiors reflect a modern aesthetic with warm wood finishes and practical furniture layouts, while large windows and sliding doors promote a strong connection to the surrounding environment, fostering an inviting living 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
competition now

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