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Chestnut Stands and Mocha Accents in a User-Centric Space

Authors:
Zhenxiao Yang, Ashish Gangwar, Angela Viaje, Yoon Chai
Chestnut Stands and Mocha Accents in a User-Centric Space
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Constructed with chestnut accents and mocha-stained wood, the design prioritizes user comfort and energy efficiency, serving as an inviting space for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with chestnut-stained wood for both aesthetic and structural integrity.
02
Mocha-stained wood serves as the primary design element, enhancing warmth.
03
Fiberglass insulation integrates energy efficiency without compromising design.
04
Interiors feature light-stained plywood, contributing to a spacious feel.
05
User-centric layout emphasizes intuitive navigation throughout the space.

The project showcases a well-thought-out design focused on functionality and user experience, carefully integrated into its surrounding environment. The design aims to create a smooth flow between various spaces, prioritizing practical use while also considering aesthetic appeal. This balance is evident in how the different areas interact with each other, ultimately enhancing usability and comfort for users.

Material Selection

The use of materials plays a significant role in shaping the character of the building. Mocha stained wood is used as the top component, adding a warm and inviting touch. This feature is paired with light stained plywood for the interior, which promotes an airy atmosphere, making the spaces feel more expansive while still allowing for cozy nooks.

Energy Efficiency

Fiberglass insulation is placed within the walls, highlighting a commitment to energy efficiency. This choice not only improves comfort by maintaining temperature but also reduces environmental impact. The insulation helps the building remain comfortable year-round, lessening the reliance on energy for heating and cooling.

Functional Details

The interior counter is made from enamel steel, which provides durability and easy upkeep. This material is well-suited for busy areas, as it can withstand regular use without showing wear. The exterior stand incorporates chestnut stained wood, tying the building to nature, while irving knotty pine is chosen for the stand’s exterior board. Together, these materials create a rich texture that connects the structure to its environment.

The overall design emphasizes clarity and purpose, ensuring that each element, from spatial arrangement to material choice, contributes to the building’s identity. It presents an architectural presence that is both inviting and practical, reflecting a thoughtful approach to modern design.

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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.

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

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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