Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles Complementing Compact Living in Sustainable Timber Microhomes

Authors:
Lim Yen khing, Teh Adele, kai xin
Charred Wooden Shingles Complementing Compact Living in Sustainable Timber Microhomes

Project in-detail

Harnessing the natural aesthetics of charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this microhome redefines compact living by seamlessly integrating sustainable practices with flexible, multifunctional spaces for modern lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles are utilized for added durability and aesthetic appeal, enhancing the home's resistance to the elements.
02
The design features cross-laminated timber panels that provide excellent structural integrity while reducing weight.
03
A bent A-frame shape maximizes interior space and encourages natural light penetration throughout the living areas.
04
The microhome employs a rainwater harvesting system that efficiently captures and utilizes rainwater for non-potable use.
05
Flexible living spaces allow for easy reconfiguration, catering to the diverse needs of its inhabitants over time.
The Pasangan architectural project presents an innovative approach to residential design tailored to the unique needs of its environment in Malaysia. This microhome, which spans less than 25 square meters, embodies a contemporary interpretation of living space that prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and adaptability. The term "Pasangan," meaning "pair" in Malay, reflects the harmonious design concept where two distinct living units are merged into a cohesive whole.

At its core, The Pasangan serves as a model for addressing the growing demand for compact living solutions in urban and rural settings alike. It functions not only as a residence but also as a platform for versatile lifestyles, accommodating various configurations to meet changing personal and family needs. The design emphasizes the importance of transforming spaces, allowing residents to customize their environment while maintaining essential services and comfort.

The architecture is meticulously planned, featuring a thoughtful layout that maximizes available space. Key areas include a multifunctional living room, a compact kitchen, an efficient bathroom, and flexible sleeping spaces. This spatial organization encourages fluid movement within the home while promoting an atmosphere of openness and collaboration. Fixed elements, such as plumbing and electrical installations, are methodically integrated into the overall design, while movable partitions and furniture stimulate creativity and personal preference, adapting to users' evolving requirements.

Materiality plays a crucial role in defining The Pasangan's architectural character. The primary materials include wood, concrete, and steel—each chosen not just for its physical properties but for its contribution to environmental sustainability. The use of wood for the internal walls imparts warmth and creates a welcoming ambiance, while concrete serves as a durable exterior that withstands the challenging rains characteristic of the region. Steel elements support structural integrity, enhancing the overall resilience of the building.

A highlight of the design is its commitment to sustainability. The Pasangan incorporates rainwater harvesting systems, elegantly capturing and recycling rainwater for household use, particularly for non-potable applications such as toilet flushing. This initiative illustrates the project's dedication to responsible water management practices. Moreover, an abundance of windows ensures ample natural light and promotes cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and cooling systems, which is vital in Malaysia’s humid climate.

The unique design aspects of The Pasangan lie in its adaptability to various terrains and settings, facilitating installation in both flat and sloped areas. The foundational platform is engineered to be easily customizable during construction, demonstrating the design’s flexibility and responsiveness to diverse geographical conditions. This is particularly significant in regions where terrain varies drastically, allowing for a broader application of the architectural principles employed.

Additionally, The Pasangan represents a shift in how we approach living space in the modern world. By thoughtfully blending minimalism with functionality, the project encourages a lifestyle that values efficiency without sacrificing comfort. This architectural endeavor is an invitation to rethink traditional layouts and embrace new ways of living, suitable for a variety of demographic groups.

As an architectural project, The Pasangan stands as a testament to contemporary design strategies that resonate with the cultural and environmental context of Malaysia. It challenges preconceived notions of residential architecture, offering insightful solutions for modern living. For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this project further, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas will provide a comprehensive understanding of its thoughtful implementation and innovative approaches to housing. The Pasangan is not just a place to live; it is a reflection of evolving design ideologies that prioritize sustainability, functionality, and user-centered experiences.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy