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Curtain-Defined Living Spaces Crafted with Clay and Straw

Author:
Martyna Lorbiecka
Curtain-Defined Living Spaces Crafted with Clay and Straw

Project in-detail

Defined by movable curtains that reshape living areas and constructed from clay and straw for sustainable microclimate control, the design provides compact housing solutions that adapt to diverse daily functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Movable curtains allow for flexible division of living spaces.
02
Constructed with clay walls to aid in natural humidity control.
03
Integrated built-in wardrobes enhance space efficiency.
04
Dual entrances facilitate connection between micro homes.
05
Design encourages interaction with natural light and outdoor spaces.

The "MICROHOME FOLD SPACE" project focuses on providing practical living solutions in urban settings where space is limited. The design aims to maximize utility while ensuring comfort and intimacy for its occupants. By emphasizing flexibility, the project adapts to the varied needs of daily life, presenting an innovative approach to compact living.

Spatial Organization

Movable curtains play a central role in defining different areas within the home. This design choice allows occupants to easily change their environment based on their activities or need for privacy. There are three main configurations. The “Fold of Dream” features a curtained window and kitchenette, with a bed placed in a space lacking direct light. In the “Double Fold Life,” the design separates rest and work areas, balancing productivity with personal space. The “Large Fold Space” uses curtains to reveal windows and a kitchenette while cleverly concealing built-in wardrobes.

Material Considerations

Sustainability is a key consideration in the choice of materials. Clay, straw, and wood are fundamental elements of the structure. Clay is particularly effective for controlling indoor humidity, absorbing moisture when needed and releasing it when the air is dry. This feature is essential in small living spaces where air quality can be a concern.

Thermal Performance

The combination of clay and straw contributes to effective thermal properties. Walls have a low heat transfer rate, which helps keep the interior warm during colder months while reducing energy use for heating. These materials also provide sound insulation, promoting a quiet and peaceful home.

Safety Features

Fire safety is integrated into the design through the use of clay and straw walls. This system, when combined with a protective layer of lime plaster, enhances safety for the occupants. The careful selection of materials ensures that the living environment is both functional and secure.

The "MICROHOME FOLD SPACE" project illustrates a well-thought-out living solution that embraces flexible spatial arrangements and sustainable materials. Curtains not only offer privacy but also create a sense of openness, allowing the home to adapt fluidly to the changing needs of its 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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