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C.I.P. Concrete and H.S.S. Steel Frame Elevate Eco-Friendly Microhomes in Maine

Authors:
Matthew Robert Hall, Isabel Mchale Sierra
C.I.P. Concrete and H.S.S. Steel Frame Elevate Eco-Friendly Microhomes in Maine

Project in-detail

Elevated by a combination of C.I.P. concrete and H.S.S. steel framing, this eco-friendly microhome integrates cross-laminated timber construction with flexible layouts to provide a sustainable living solution on the island of Frenchboro.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with an H.S.S.
02
steel frame for structural flexibility.
03
Utilizes C.I.P.
04
concrete for enhanced durability in coastal conditions.
05
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient thermal performance.

## C-Clamp Architectural Design Project

### Overview and Context
Located on Frenchboro Island, Maine, the C-Clamp project aims to create a sustainable microhome community that emphasizes ecological living. In response to the region's serene landscapes and coastal environment, the design integrates local characteristics into its framework while promoting a unique lifestyle that encourages interaction with nature. The architectural intent addresses sociological concerns related to housing, focusing on smaller living spaces that foster community and sustainable practices.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The project's spatial strategy prioritizes functionality within a compact layout. An open-plan design facilitates adaptable use, allowing residents to reconfigure spaces according to their needs throughout the day. The extensive use of glass walls enhances connectivity between interior and outdoor environments, creating fluid transitions that encourage a relationship with the natural surroundings. This configuration not only supports diverse living patterns but also contributes to a sense of community among residents.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices in the C-Clamp design reflect a commitment to durability and sustainable practices. C.I.P. concrete serves as the structural backbone, offering resilience to the island's challenging weather. The use of H.S.S. steel in the brace frame ensures strength while maintaining a lightweight structure, while 3-ply cross-laminated timber (CLT) provides necessary thermal insulation. The corrugated copper siding contributes to both durability and modern aesthetic appeal, and the EPDM roofing is designed for weather resistance, thereby enhancing energy efficiency. This careful selection of materials not only aligns with sustainability goals but also supports the overall design philosophy.

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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
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