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Corten Steel and Polycarbonate Integration in a Sustainable Microhome设计

Author:
Matthew James Hughes
Corten Steel and Polycarbonate Integration in a Sustainable Microhome设计

Project in-detail

Constructed with Corten steel and polycarbonate, this microhome exemplifies sustainable living through its efficient design and communal spaces, serving as an innovative solution for rural dwelling.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with weathered Corten steel that integrates with the landscape over time.
02
Uses high-performance polycarbonate panels for optimal natural light and insulation.
03
Features a central communal space designed for social interaction among occupants.
04
Incorporates vertical living areas to maximize comfort within a compact footprint.
05
Employs passive heating and cooling strategies for energy efficiency and sustainability.

### Project Overview
Bothán is a microhome located in a rural context that integrates contemporary design principles with traditional architectural forms, taking inspiration from the Peruvian Andes. The project addresses the challenges of small-space living while promoting sustainability, community interaction, and a harmonious relationship with the natural environment.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout of Bothán maximizes functionality within its modest footprint of 8 m². Essential living areas are organized around a central hearth, serving as a focal point for communal gatherings. The integrated living and eating spaces encourage occupant interaction, while sleeping areas are designed for privacy and comfort, utilizing vertical space efficiently. A mezzanine level introduces additional living quarters, optimizing the use of height and reinforcing the connection to the surrounding landscape.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials for Bothán is both practical and environmentally conscious. High-performance Kingspan panels ensure energy efficiency and structural integrity, while Corten steel cladding offers durability and a weathered aesthetic that blends with the natural context. Locally sourced sustainable wood features in flooring and interior finishes, contributing warmth and a tactile quality. Polycarbonate roofing panels enhance natural light infiltration and thermal management, and large glass windows facilitate ventilation and outdoor connection. Additionally, the inclusion of solar panels underscores the project’s commitment to renewable energy, supporting its operational independence and ecological footprint reduction.

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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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