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Cylindrical Home Crafted with Quadcore Panels and Eco-Friendly Materials Nestled in Forest Environment

Authors:
Abir Hariz, Matthew Carney
Cylindrical Home Crafted with Quadcore Panels and Eco-Friendly Materials Nestled in Forest Environment

Project in-detail

Crafted from Quadcore panels and embraced by the forest, this cylindrical residence efficiently integrates sustainable materials and innovative design to create a compact living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted entirely from sustainable materials, including Kingspan Quadcore panels for superior insulation.
02
Embraces a cylindrical shape that maximizes natural light and enhances views of the surrounding forest.
03
Incorporates a greywater treatment system, reducing environmental impact and promoting self-sufficiency.
04
Features a central column design that mimics the structure of a tree, reinforcing the connection to nature.
05
Uses Yosima WHITE clay plaster for both aesthetic appeal and indoor humidity regulation.

## Architectural Analysis Report: Sylvan Home

### Project Overview
Sylvan Home is situated within the Lebanese landscape, spanning 25 square meters, and is designed in alignment with principles of environmentally sustainable living. The intent is to create a dwelling that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while providing an innovative living space that prioritizes ecological preservation and functional design.

### Conceptual Framework
The architectural concept embodies a symbiotic relationship between the residence and its environment, taking inspiration from ecological structures. The design incorporates elements that reflect the anatomy of a tree, featuring components such as a stem, roots, and canopy. These aspects are carefully articulated to represent both functional and symbolic dimensions within the structure, fostering a connection to the forest ecosystem.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The project utilizes a range of sustainable materials to minimize environmental impact and enhance energy efficiency. Key materials include:

- **Kingspan Quadcore AWP LEC Wall Panel**: Provides insulation and contributes to overall energy performance.
- **Enviroboard**: An engineered wallboard that mitigates thermal bridging.
- **Yosima WHITE Clay Plaster**: Regulates indoor humidity and offers aesthetic qualities.
- **Gutex Thermoflex**: A sustainable wood fiber insulation material.
- **Timber Structure**: Sourced from renewable resources, combining warm aesthetics with structural integrity.
- **Glazing Systems**: Incorporate double-glazed windows for optimal light exposure and energy retention.
- **Kärcher Water Treatment Systems**: Facilitate rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling.

### Spatial Organization
Sylvan Home's unique cylindrical form enables a fluid spatial layout, enhancing interactions with the surrounding woods. The design maximizes natural light penetration while strategically framing views of the landscape.

The interior comprises two levels:
- **Level 1** features an open living area, kitchen, and workspace, where the circular design promotes interaction.
- **Level 2** includes a private bedroom that offers scenic views, creating a tranquil retreat designed for relaxation.

### Environmental Integration
Significant focus is placed on integrating sustainable practices within the design. Features include:

- **Rainwater Harvesting System**: Channels rainwater into storage, utilizing gravity for effective drainage and filtration.
- **Waste Treatment Plant**: An off-grid sewage treatment system is built into the design to reduce environmental impact.
- **Solar Energy Systems**: Optimally positioned solar panels harness sunlight for energy, supporting self-sufficiency.

### Unique Design Features
Sylvan Home's design exemplifies a commitment to community integration and environmental respect. Leaf-like solar canopies blend into the landscape, while vertical cladding lines mimic local trees. Thoughtful lighting design creates an atmospheric experience, highlighting the relationship between the home and its natural surroundings after dark.

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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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