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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Optimizing Space and Energy Efficiency in Compact Living

Author:
Marco Francisco
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Optimizing Space and Energy Efficiency in Compact Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from cross-laminated timber and enhanced by solar energy solutions, this compact living space redefines efficiency and adaptability for modern residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural integrity and sustainability.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize interior space and natural light.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Equipped with integrated solar panels to maximize energy efficiency and self-sufficiency.
05
Includes a modular layout that allows for versatile usage and quick assembly.

## Overview

The project involves the design of a micro house, conceived to optimize energy efficiency and compact living while ensuring residential comfort. Located in a context that addresses diverse socio-economic backgrounds and emergency housing demands, the design aims to respond to global urbanization and environmental challenges through sustainable practices and flexibility of use.

## Spatial Strategy and User Adaptability

The micro house encompasses an efficient living area of approximately 25 square meters, tailored to accommodate various inhabitants, including individuals and families. The design utilizes adaptive principles, which enable customization to align with different cultural and social needs. Key strategic features include quick deployment methods, ease of transportation, and the ability to modify interior spaces for functions such as home offices or multi-functional sleeping areas.

## Materiality and Sustainability

### Exterior Elements

The exterior of the micro house features a combination of KingSpan panels and aluminum brise soleil, which enhance thermal regulation while contributing to aesthetic value. The roof integrates photovoltaic panels to foster energy autonomy, and its sloped design facilitates rainwater collection, complementing the overall modern aesthetic.

### Interior Composition

Internally, the micro house utilizes an open floor plan that maximizes functionality. This layout allows the living area to transition into dining space, while a kitchen equipped with contemporary appliances supports efficient living. A multipurpose platform serves as a dual-use space for both sleeping and working needs. Durable materials such as laminated bamboo flooring on Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) slabs are employed for their sustainability and low maintenance requirements.

## Sustainability Features

Resource efficiency is a core principle embedded in the design. It employs materials with high recyclability potential, such as laminated bamboo and Thermoplastic Olefin (TPO) roofing. Furthermore, integrated water collection systems facilitate the management of non-potable resources, and the strategic placement of windows and brise soleil enhances the thermal performance of the structure.

## Unique Attributes

Prominent aspects of the design include its modular nature, allowing adaptability to various terrains and the capacity for easy transportation. The micro house also addresses urgent housing needs through rapid deployment capabilities, making it suitable for disaster response scenarios. Additionally, the layout encourages community interactions by situating multiple units around shared green spaces, fostering a sense of community and resource sharing among residents.

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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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