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Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable SIPs Define Compact Urban Living Solution

Author:
Dilyana Anatolieva Mihova
Charred Wooden Shingles and Sustainable SIPs Define Compact Urban Living Solution

Project in-detail

Featuring charred wooden shingles and structural insulated panels, this compact urban dwelling provides an adaptable living space designed for sustainability and efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for exterior durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates structural insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency and insulation.
03
Features a modular interior layout that adapts to varying space requirements.
04
Includes rooftop gardens to promote biodiversity and improve air quality.
05
Designed with a bent A-frame structure for optimal space utilization and aesthetic appeal.

**Overview**

The Micro-Macro House is situated in an urban context that confronts the challenges of affordable housing. Its design integrates innovative solutions designed to enhance both micro-living experiences and macro-level sustainability. The intent is to create a residential model that not only meets the spatial and social needs of young urban residents but also enhances community connectivity through a holistic architectural approach.

**Spatial Adaptability and Community Integration**

The architectural strategy is characterized by a dual focus on adaptability and community engagement. The living spaces are engineered to be modular, allowing for various configurations that cater to changing occupant needs. Covering a compact area of 25 square meters, these spaces can function as workspaces, social environments, and sleeping areas, thus promoting a versatile lifestyle. Community-building elements are embedded within the design, creating opportunities for shared experiences and fostering connections among residents, which addresses the growing need for social interaction in urban settings.

**Material Selection and Environmental Considerations**

The construction materials used in the Micro-Macro House prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. Key features include a framed timber structure that utilizes renewable resources, along with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) that enhance energy conservation by regulating indoor temperatures. Additionally, the integration of solar panels functions to promote energy self-sufficiency. Interior spaces benefit from abundant natural light and ventilation through strategically placed large windows, which improve occupant well-being. Landscaping elements such as roof gardens and small agricultural plots contribute to biodiversity and air quality, aligning with the project’s commitment to environmental sustainability.

This multifaceted approach to material selection and spatial design culminates in a dwelling that not only meets individual needs but also addresses broader ecological and social imperatives.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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