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Concrete and SIP Structure with Outdoor Terrace for Compact Living

Author:
Khrystyna Karkhut
Concrete and SIP Structure with Outdoor Terrace for Compact Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with a concrete floor slab and structural insulated panels, the design incorporates a generous outdoor terrace to enhance living space, catering to the needs of compact residential life in Tobermory.
5 key facts about this project
01
Compact footprint of 24.98 square meters designed for efficient living.
02
Integrates a 10.3 square meter outdoor terrace for enhanced natural interaction.
03
Constructed with structural insulated panels for superior thermal performance.
04
Features a dedicated storage area promoting organization within limited space.
05
Incorporates concrete floor slabs ensuring durability and stability.

The project located in Tobermory, Canada, reflects a practical response to the requirements of compact living in a small-town environment. The design focuses on optimizing limited space while creating a strong bond with the natural surroundings. Covering a footprint of 24.98 square meters, the structure combines efficiency with a minimalistic aesthetic. The overall concept aims to enhance daily life by integrating indoor and outdoor living areas, reflecting an awareness of the local context.

Spatial Organization

The layout of the first floor prioritizes functionality with specific zones designed for everyday activities. A terrace measuring 10.3 square meters extends the living space outdoors, inviting residents to use the surrounding landscape. The kitchen and dining area, occupying 8.5 square meters, encourages social interaction and efficient cooking. A 4.8 square meter storage/resting area adds practicality, helping to keep the living space organized. The floor also includes a 1.6 square meter entrance and a WC/Shower area of 13 square meters, addressing both privacy and utility with thoughtful design.

Upper Level Functionality

The second floor increases the building's practicality, featuring a total area of 35.6 square meters, which includes a living/working area of 9.2 square meters and a sleeping area of 8.2 square meters. This arrangement meets the needs of modern lifestyles, where spaces serve multiple purposes. The design provides an easy transition between relaxation and productivity, ensuring that every square meter is used effectively.

Material Considerations

Durable and functional materials are integral to the building's performance. A concrete floor slab forms the sill plate, providing a sturdy foundation. Structural components, such as SIP screws and anchor bolts, enhance the strength of the design. Cap plates and waterproofing add essential protection, helping the building withstand environmental conditions. The use of extruded polystyrene insulation improves thermal efficiency, crucial for maintaining comfort in varying weather patterns.

Design Detail

The design focuses on simplicity and practicality, responding to the need for both private and community spaces while allowing for future adaptability. Outdoor terraces and well-planned interiors create an open and inviting atmosphere. The careful arrangement not only meets essential living needs but also fosters a connection to the visual beauty of the natural landscape. Every element comes together to create a balanced and functional living space.

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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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