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Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Integration in Flexible Urban Housing Solutions

Author:
Olga Ptichkina
Charred Wooden Shingles and Solar Integration in Flexible Urban Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and solar panels, this modular housing solution optimizes urban living by promoting sustainability and community engagement within a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Integrates solar panels into the design to support energy efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a modular layout that allows reconfiguration based on resident needs.
04
Incorporates insulation panels that improve thermal performance and comfort.
05
Includes communal spaces that foster social interaction among residents.

### Project Overview
This architectural design involves the development of high-rise apartments located at Uzhvii Natalii Street, 82. The proposal centers on a modular living unit designed to accommodate approximately ten residents within a compact area of 36.8 square meters. It aims to address the increasing demand for efficient housing solutions in densely populated urban environments, while fostering community engagement through thoughtful spatial organization and sustainable practices.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Engagement
The design employs a modular configuration to enhance adaptability and facilitate diverse uses. Prefabricated components streamline the construction process, reducing time and cost. Central to the layout are collaborative spaces, such as shared kitchens and dining areas, that encourage social interaction among residents. The design also incorporates safety features, including designated safe zones and accessible pathways, ensuring a secure environment for all inhabitants.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A range of materials selected for their durability and environmental benefits contributes to the project's sustainability goals. Reinforced concrete serves as the primary structural element, offering strength. Insulation panels enhance energy efficiency, while armored windows and explosion-resistant doors prioritize security without compromising natural light. The inclusion of green façades supports biodiversity, and solar panels facilitate the harnessing of renewable energy resources, thereby minimizing the carbon footprint of the building.

### Public Space and Outdoor Amenities
The design also prioritizes the public realm, integrating outdoor spaces that encourage social interaction and recreational activities. Features such as green roofs serve dual purposes by providing communal areas while also managing stormwater and regulating temperature. Dedicated recreational areas cater to both active and passive uses, enhancing the livability of the environment. The incorporation of landscaped green zones further promotes biodiversity within the urban setting.

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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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