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Copper-Clad Microhome Featuring Adaptive Oculus Design for Energy Efficiency

Author:
SebastiÁn Sciuto Yurkowski
Copper-Clad Microhome Featuring Adaptive Oculus Design for Energy Efficiency

Project in-detail

With a copper-clad exterior and 480 dynamic oculi for optimal light and airflow management, this microhome in Ushuaia exemplifies efficient living in a compact space designed to withstand extreme weather conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal shape maximizes internal space while maintaining structural integrity.
02
480 adjustable oculi facilitate natural light and airflow management.
03
Exterior clad in copper enhances durability and weather resistance.
04
Solar panels integrated into the roof support energy efficiency.
05
Designed specifically to withstand extreme weather conditions in Ushuaia.

## Hexa Microhome Overview

Located in Ushuaia, Argentina, the Hexa Microhome is designed to address the challenges of a rugged and cold climate through efficient space utilization and innovative architectural strategies. The structure adopts a hexagonal form, which optimizes the interior layout while promoting structural integrity in adverse weather conditions. The intention is to create a compact and functional living space that is both complementary to the surrounding environment and conducive to the user experience.

## Material and Structural Strategies

### Material Selection and Aesthetics
The exterior of the Hexa Microhome is primarily clad in copper, selected for its durability and evolving patina, which enhances its visual character over time. Complementary to this, strategically placed glass oculi are incorporated into the design, allowing for natural illumination while contributing to the home's energy performance through the harnessing of solar energy. Metal is employed in the construction of the oculus mechanisms, reinforcing structural stability and aligning with the overall energy strategy.

### Functional Design Features
The microhome features an adaptive oculus mechanism comprising 480 units that can adjust to manage internal climate and light. This adaptability enhances user comfort and reduces reliance on artificial lighting, adhering to energy-efficient principles. Additionally, the roof design facilitates snow management and supports solar panel installation, maximizing energy capture. The interior layout emphasizes minimalist living, seamlessly integrating kitchen and sleeping areas to optimize space without compromising comfort.

These design choices align with broader sustainability goals, demonstrating resilience in the face of extreme weather while providing a functional living environment suitable for contemporary needs.

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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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