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Cylindrical Design with Transformable Spaces Featuring Metal Ribs and Natural Light

Cylindrical Design with Transformable Spaces Featuring Metal Ribs and Natural Light

Project in-detail

A cylindrical structure utilizes a rotation mechanism and metal ribs to provide adaptable living spaces bathed in natural light, focusing on efficient residential functionality within a compact footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical form enhances spatial fluidity and connectivity.
02
Integrated rotation mechanism allows customizable space configurations.
03
Metal rib structure offers durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Transformable furniture maximizes utility in limited space.
05
Focus on energy efficiency through optimal insulation and natural light.

## Overview

Situated in an urban context where space is at a premium, the microhome concept embodies a strategic response to contemporary housing demands. The design emphasizes innovative spatial organization and functional adaptability within a compact footprint, aiming to create a living environment that caters to modern lifestyles while fostering community interaction.

## Spatial Configuration and Flexibility

At the heart of the design is a dual-component structure consisting of a cylindrical "Barrel" with a square cross-section and a static block. This configuration efficiently delineates four distinct functional zones: a sleeping area, a dining area with a transformable table, a closet area, and a sports area featuring adjustable exercise equipment. The innovative arrangement allows for dynamic transitions between modes of living, encouraging residents to modify their environments based on daily needs and activities.

## Material Selection and Structural Integrity

The material palette enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the microhome. A robust metal frame forms the core of the structure, ensuring durability while an insulating layer contributes to energy efficiency. Glass panels are strategically incorporated to promote natural light and visual connections to the exterior, while wooden elements add warmth and tactile comfort. The innovative use of ribbed metal for the external shell echoes the project's sustainability goals, optimizing thermal performance while introducing dramatic design elements.

A notable feature of this design is the rotation mechanism employed in the microhome. This system supports the reconfiguration of living spaces, allowing for seamless adaptations to various activities, whether entertaining guests or engaging in physical fitness. Transformable furniture, such as the dining table and exercise bars, further enhances usability without requiring additional square footage. The overall design fosters interaction, adaptability, and efficiency, addressing the pressing need for multifunctional living spaces in urban environments.

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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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