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Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Framework in a Compact Community Shelter

Author:
Marzena Anna Prachnio-modelska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Steel Framework in a Compact Community Shelter

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a steel framework, the design creates a resilient micro-shelter that fosters community and self-sufficiency for displaced individuals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural stability and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that maximizes interior space while minimizing material use.
04
Integrates vertical gardening systems to promote food security and sustainability.
05
Equipped with renewable energy sources, including photovoltaic panels and wind turbines.

### Overview
The Smart Hop/me project offers a contemporary solution to the challenges of housing shortages, particularly for refugees and displaced persons. Located in regions experiencing significant refugee populations, such as Germany, Turkey, and Jordan, the design approach emphasizes adaptability and sustainability while maintaining a focus on community engagement and connection to nature.

### Architectural Strategy
The design features a multifunctional micro-house concept that serves both as individual living spaces and as communal hubs. The structure adopts a modern, angular form that integrates traditional housing elements with functional features. A key aspect of the design is the roof, which maximizes energy efficiency, collects rainwater, and supports gardening activities. The internal layout is optimized for space utilization, incorporating multi-functional areas and innovative storage solutions to enhance functionality.

### Material and Energy Solutions
The project prioritizes sustainable building materials, utilizing Kingspan QUADCORE® insulated panels for walls and roofs, alongside a lightweight steel structure that provides stability. To ensure efficient resource management, the design incorporates advanced energy solutions such as photovoltaic glazing, wind power turbines, and a ground source heat pump for optimized heating and cooling. Additional features include a rainwater harvesting tank and perforated partition walls that promote natural light and ventilation throughout the space.

This comprehensive approach enhances the overall sustainability of the design, addressing both immediate shelter needs and fostering long-term resilience within affected communities.

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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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