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Charred Wooden Shingles and Triple Glazed Windows in a Compact Eco-Friendly Home

Charred Wooden Shingles and Triple Glazed Windows in a Compact Eco-Friendly Home
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Constructed with charred wooden shingles and enhanced by triple-glazed windows, the compact residence exemplifies sustainable living through innovative design while accommodating the needs of a professional couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for natural weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Designed with triple-glazed windows to maximize energy efficiency and natural light.
04
Features a bent A-frame structure that optimizes interior space while providing structural stability.
05
Equipped with a rainwater harvesting system that supports off-grid living.

## Overview

Located in an urban context, the ALPHA microhome is a contemporary architectural solution designed for a professional couple who require a compact and functional living space. The development prioritizes sustainability, spatial efficiency, and multi-functionality within a minimal footprint. It integrates essential amenities typically found in a traditional home while promoting environmentally conscious lifestyles.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial layout of the ALPHA microhome features a well-defined zoning strategy that separates living, working, and private areas. This configuration optimizes circulation and accessibility, making daily routines more efficient. Designed as a single-story structure, it enhances comfort through ease of movement, while elements such as a deck and garden area contribute to a more enriching living experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The microhome employs a locally sourced wood frame for its primary structure, thus minimizing its carbon footprint and supporting local economies. The exterior is finished with KingSpan’s Quadro AWP LLC insulated roof panels and solar Thermax panels, providing robust insulation and energy efficiency. Design features such as a pitched roof enhance rainwater harvesting capabilities, while large, triple-glazed windows facilitate natural light and cross-ventilation, decreasing reliance on artificial heating and cooling.

The project incorporates several sustainable systems, including a rainwater harvesting mechanism and an integrated solar panel installation, contributing to its self-sustaining energy profile. The use of recycled and remanufactured materials not only enhances the home’s aesthetic but also underscores its commitment to environmental responsibility.

### Interior Design and Functionality

The interior layout comprises distinct zones for sleeping, working, and socializing, designed to maximize functionality within a limited space. The bedroom provides a comfortable retreat, while an efficient work space supports professional activities. The open living area, which flows into the kitchen and dining spaces, encourages social interaction.

In terms of interior design, the use of ergonomic furniture and natural materials creates a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing overall user comfort. The kitchen, equipped with modern appliances and ample storage, is designed for efficiency, and the compact bathroom ensures necessary amenities without compromising space. Each element within the ALPHA microhome has been curated to support multipurpose use and minimize waste, aligning with the overarching goals of sustainable living.

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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

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Eligibility Open to all
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