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Curved Glazed Windows in Timber Microhome by the Danube

Authors:
Aniela Vinatoru, Claudiu vlad Varlan
Curved Glazed Windows in Timber Microhome by the Danube

Project in-detail

Curved glazed windows flood the interior with light while framing views of the Danube in a compact timber microhome designed for sustainable living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved glazed windows maximize natural light and views of the Danube.
02
The home utilizes a prefabricated timber framing system for efficient assembly.
03
Different floor levels create distinct social and private zones within the space.
04
Sustainable materials enhance thermal performance and environmental impact.
05
Strategic openings improve airflow while maintaining privacy and aesthetic appeal.

The Danube Microhome is situated in Islaz, Romania, at the meeting point of the Olt and Danube rivers. The compact dwelling reflects modern living needs while maintaining a connection to nature. With a focus on minimalism, the design makes efficient use of space, creating a comfortable and practical living environment for its occupants.

Architectural Concept

The microhome is built around the idea of minimalism, prioritizing functionality while keeping the interior open and inviting. The design limits the footprint of the home, which allows it to maximize usable space. Different floor levels in the kitchen and living areas create distinct yet open zones. This layout fosters both togetherness and individual privacy.

Spatial Dynamics

A significant feature of the microhome is its curved glazed windows. These windows invite natural light inside, making the rooms feel bright and airy. They also frame scenic views of the Danube, connecting the occupants to the outdoor landscape. This relationship with nature enhances the living experience and adds to the home's charm.

Material Selection

An important aspect of the design is its focus on environmentally friendly materials. The home uses a prefabricated timber framing system, which makes construction efficient. Other materials include thermo modified pine, triple glazed windows and doors, and rigid panel EPS. These choices contribute to the overall durability of the structure, while also improving thermal insulation. The interior walls made of wood create a warm atmosphere that aligns with the minimalist style.

Design Features

The design incorporates strategic openings that provide airflow and privacy. These openings play a vital role in ensuring comfort for the inhabitants while also enhancing the home's visual appeal. Such thoughtful details add character and depth to the microhome, allowing it to fit naturally within the surrounding landscape. The design captures the essence of modern living while maintaining a strong connection to the environment.

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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

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