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Circular Design Embracing Natural Light with Sustainable Timber and Solar Panels

Author:
Han Lin
Circular Design Embracing Natural Light with Sustainable Timber and Solar Panels

Project in-detail

With a circular layout that maximizes natural light, the residence employs sustainable timber construction and integrates solar panels, creating a flexible living space centered around a vibrant garden.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central garden enhances natural ventilation and daylight throughout the living spaces.
02
Sliding panels provide flexible space arrangements for various activities and needs.
03
Circular layout promotes communal interaction while maintaining individual privacy.
04
Incorporation of rainwater harvesting supports sustainable water management practices.
05
Use of charred wooden shingles reduces maintenance and increases durability.

### Overview

Located within an urban context, the design emphasizes a contemporary take on residential living, drawing from historical housing models such as the Roman Domus and the Chinese Shiyuyan. The project incorporates central courtyards to integrate interior and exterior environments, highlighting a commitment to both functional and sustainable living spaces. The layout is meticulously designed to enhance connectivity while providing privacy, promoting an adaptable living experience.

### Spatial Configuration and User Adaptability

The design utilizes a circular layout that optimizes movement and interaction among occupants. A central courtyard serves as both a garden and a source of natural light and ventilation, fostering a harmonized living environment. Sliding panels within the layout allow users to adjust spatial divisions, enabling a flexible configuration that caters to communal activities and personal solitude. This organization not only enhances the overall livability but also encourages a balance between social engagement and private retreat.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The material palette is carefully chosen to support sustainability and a connection with the natural environment. Key materials include:

- **Wood**: Used for roofing, walls, and flooring, offering warmth and durability while aligning with the natural setting.
- **Steel**: Incorporated in structural components for resilience and aesthetic value.
- **Glass**: Employed in windows and sliding panels to maximize light and provide visual links to the outdoor landscape.
- **Solar Panels**: Integrated into the roof design for energy generation, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainable practices.
- **Waterproof Membrane**: Enhances the structure's longevity by preventing moisture intrusion.
- **Acoustic Ceiling Tiles**: Improve indoor sound quality, contributing to acoustic comfort.

Additionally, features such as a rainwater harvesting system and energy-efficient appliances minimize the ecological footprint and promote a sustainable lifestyle. The circular form not only serves aesthetic purposes but also facilitates natural airflow and optimal daylight penetration, ensuring a comfortable living environment throughout the year. The integration of advanced technologies with natural systems exemplifies a commitment to efficiency and 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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