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Curved Windows and Green Roofs in a Compact Timber Home

Author:
Eremciuc Ion
Curved Windows and Green Roofs in a Compact Timber Home

Project in-detail

The integration of curved windows and a green roof in a compact timber home maximizes natural light and sustainability while providing essential living spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Two distinct modules separate communal and private living areas.
02
Photovoltaic panels on both roofs provide renewable energy.
03
Green roof enhances water management and insulation.
04
Curved windows improve natural light and visual connection to nature.
05
Prefabricated timber construction simplifies assembly and site impact.

The design emphasizes a harmony between people and the natural world through the concept of "Jing Jang." It features two distinct modules: one for the Kitchen and Dining area, and another for the Bedroom, working space, and a storage area on the mezzanine. This arrangement allows for both private and communal spaces within a compact layout, offering a total internal area of 26 square meters and a construction footprint of 24.5 square meters.

Prefabrication

The structure is built using two prefabricated timber-framed modules. This construction method simplifies logistics, making it easier to transport materials to the site and assemble them quickly. By employing independent steel drilled pylons instead of a traditional concrete foundation, it accommodates different site conditions and minimizes disruption to the land.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a central focus of the design. Photovoltaic panels are installed on the roofs of both modules to collect solar energy for the home’s electrical needs. The green roof, located over the separating zone, helps manage rainwater by collecting and filtering it. Additionally, ventilated façades made of wooden panels enhance air flow and temperature control, contributing to the structure's overall energy efficiency.

Thermal Performance

The dwelling features 20 centimeters of mineral or basalt wool insulation within the walls, optimizing energy conservation. This thoughtful choice allows the building to remain warm in winter and cool in summer, ensuring comfort year-round. Curved windows are integrated throughout the design, allowing natural light to flood the interior and creating a strong connection with the environment outside.

Design Integration

The arrangement of spaces fosters both privacy and community interaction, with clear pathways connecting different areas. The placement of windows is intentional, drawing in light and making the interior feel more open. This design demonstrates a commitment to contemporary living that respects both functionality and the surrounding landscape, ultimately enhancing the experience of its occupants.

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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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