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Cork Facade and Photovoltaic Skylights in a Compact Living Space

Authors:
Monika Supe, Franziska Futterknecht
Cork Facade and Photovoltaic Skylights in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

With a cork facade and integrated photovoltaic skylights, this compact dwelling optimizes energy efficiency and storage solutions, providing a functional living space within a 21.4 square meter footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork shutters improve ventilation and natural light.
02
Storage integrated into steps and under the bed maximizes space.
03
Photovoltaic technology is embedded in the skylights.
04
Water reservoir system reuses shower wastewater for toilets.
05
Compact design achieves functionality in just 21.4 square meters.

Vale de Moses is a design that presents an efficient living space within a compact area of 21.4 square meters. The focus is on creating a functional environment that supports the daily lives of its users. The architecture emphasizes sustainability and thoughtful use of materials, aiming to balance comfort and ecological concerns.

Spatial Organization

The layout is carefully organized to connect different living areas effectively. Steps lead directly to the bed, creating easy access while conserving floor space. This clever design makes it possible to incorporate ample storage, with drawers built into the steps and space utilized under the bed. Wall niches feature flaps that provide additional storage as needed, maintaining a clean and minimal look throughout.

Sustainable Practices

Bifold shutters made from cork are a key feature of the design. These shutters allow for natural light to enter while improving ventilation. Their use supports energy conservation by reducing the need for artificial light and heating. Cork is also utilized in the facade and roof, showing a commitment to environmentally friendly materials. This natural resource adds warmth to the building's appearance, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Energy Efficiency

The project includes photovoltaic technology integrated into skylights, capturing renewable energy. This thoughtful placement helps the building reduce energy consumption. Additionally, a water reservoir system recycles wastewater from the shower for use in toilets, promoting responsible water use. These practical elements align with current standards for environmental sustainability.

Structural Integrity

Concrete is the chosen material for the foundation, providing the necessary strength and durability. This choice ensures long-term stability for the structure. The integration of functional spaces and a solid foundation demonstrates a clear understanding of modern living needs.

An interesting detail is the way storage solutions are combined with living spaces, fostering interaction and flexibility within the home. This thoughtful design approach creates a welcoming and practical environment suited for contemporary life.

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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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