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Cork-Insulated Retreat Blending Flexible Canvas Spaces with Sustainable Living

Authors:
Anna Karagianni, Vasiliki Geropanta, Georgia Lytsika, Dimitra Nyktari
Cork-Insulated Retreat Blending Flexible Canvas Spaces with Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

With its innovative use of cork insulation and adaptable canvas partitions, this microhome reimagines sustainable living while nestled within the beauty of a Mediterranean landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cork insulation for enhanced thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Features retractable canvas partitions that allow for flexible spatial configurations.
03
Incorporates smart technology for real-time environmental control and user customization.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly with its Mediterranean landscape, fostering a connection with nature.
05
Emphasizes multifunctional living areas tailored to adapt to urban lifestyles without sacrificing space.
The E.B.L. House project represents an innovative approach to modern living through architecture. This design exemplifies how architecture can seamlessly integrate with nature, offering a habitat that prioritizes both sustainability and flexibility. Nestled within a Mediterranean landscape, the E.B.L. House aims to redefine residential spaces, positioning itself as a microhome that caters to the dynamics of contemporary life.

The primary function of the E.B.L. House is to provide adaptable living spaces that cater to the varied needs of its occupants. The design embraces the principles of bio-mimicry, drawing inspiration from the natural behaviors of bees and their hives. The result is an innovative architectural solution that transforms the concept of a traditional home into a versatile environment where users can interact with their surroundings more meaningfully. This microhome not only facilitates comfortable living but also fosters a sense of community and connection to the natural world.

At the heart of the E.B.L. House is its unique structural design. The primary material utilized in the construction is cork, specifically harvested from cork oak trees, which provides excellent thermal insulation while being environmentally friendly. This choice of material aligns with the project's sustainable ethos. The architectural design features a fixed ground platform complemented by retractable canvas modules, allowing for significant spatial flexibility. This setup creates dynamic areas that can be used for various purposes, whether for social gatherings or private moments of retreat.

The living areas of the E.B.L. House are arranged into a series of functional zones designed to enhance the user experience. These include adaptable entrances, a multifunctional bathroom, and flexible sleeping and living areas. This thoughtful layout enables inhabitants to customize their living arrangements based on their activities, contributing to a lifestyle that values efficiency and multifunctionality. A significant aspect of this design is the integration of smart technology, enabling users to control various environmental elements, including temperature and spatial configurations, through a dedicated mobile application. This connectivity enhances the relationship between the occupant and the space, fostering a sense of ownership and personal engagement.

The interplay of indoor and outdoor spaces is a prominent feature of this project. Extensive glazing allows natural light to filter throughout the interiors, blurring the lines between in and out, and creating a seamless flow of experience. The design encourages residents to take full advantage of the surrounding environment, inviting nature into their daily routines while maintaining privacy and comfort within their home.

In terms of materiality, the project leans heavily on sustainably sourced products. Beyond the cork shell, components of the design include canvas rolls used for flexible partitioning, timber bars that provide structural support and warmth, and solar panels that contribute to the building's energy efficiency. This conscious selection of materials reinforces the overarching theme of sustainability and highlights a commitment to reducing the ecological footprint associated with modern living.

The E.B.L. House project stands out due to its unique design approaches that blend advanced architectural techniques with a deep respect for the natural environment. The concept of living architecture—spaces that adapt to the inhabitant's needs—reflects a modern sensibility toward lifestyle and habitation that is particularly relevant today. By embodying the potential for versatility in residential spaces, this design challenges conventional notions of housing and community.

As you explore the E.B.L. House project presentation, consider delving deeper into its architectural plans and sections to appreciate the intricate details and comprehensive design strategies employed. This examination will provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas that have shaped this remarkable microhome and illustrate how innovative architectural solutions can create effective, sustainable living environments.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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