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Curvilinear Roof Integrated With Solar Tiles Featuring Recycled Masonry In A Compact Sustainable Dwelling

Author:
Samuel Torres
Curvilinear Roof Integrated With Solar Tiles Featuring Recycled Masonry In A Compact Sustainable Dwelling

Project in-detail

A curvilinear roof equipped with solar tiles and constructed from recycled masonry defines a compact dwelling optimized for sustainability and efficient energy use.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear roof design integrates solar technology for enhanced energy capture.
02
Utilizes recycled masonry for structural elements, reducing environmental impact.
03
Mobile ceiling mechanism allows for adaptive thermal management.
04
Rainwater harvesting system enhances self-sufficiency in water usage.
05
Compact living spaces optimized for multifunctional furniture and efficient layout.

### Project Overview

**Project Name:** Sun Eater
**Location:** Mountainous rural setting characterized by abundant greenery.
**Architectural Concept:** Solar Punk
**Purpose:** A compact housing module designed for a couple, focusing on the efficient use of solar energy.

This design embodies the principles of the Solar Punk movement, addressing environmental challenges by advocating for a symbiotic relationship between human habitation and nature. The focus on renewable energy and the integration of recycled materials aims to promote ecological resilience and social well-being over the long term.

### Spatial Organization and Functional Efficiency

The structure encompasses a total area of approximately 24.65 m², spread across two levels to enhance spatial efficiency. The lower level includes essential functions such as the bathroom (2.7 m²), kitchen (5.3 m²), living room (8.2 m²), and laundry (1.2 m²), while the upper level is designated for private spaces. Defined zones are effectively represented through color-coded plans, facilitating clear navigation and organization within the compact layout. The design prioritizes natural light through large windows, which not only reduce reliance on artificial lighting but also enhance the overall user experience.

### Sustainable and Innovative Design Features

The curvilinear roof design is integral to the building's sustainability strategy; it incorporates solar panels for energy generation, a wind pumping system for rainwater collection, and promotes natural ventilation through thermal buoyancy. Material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability, employing steel framing for structural soundness, solar heater pipes for energy efficiency, and recycled masonry to minimize waste.

In addition, the project includes innovative systems such as rainwater harvesting and a mobile ceiling mechanism for adaptable thermal management. The functional design emphasizes space efficiency with multifunctional furnishings, enhancing livability and ease of movement. Outdoor areas encourage biodiversity while providing spaces for community engagement and interaction. Through its careful integration of technology and sustainable practices, the design aligns with contemporary living standards while fostering environmental accountability.

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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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