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Cylindrical Light Well with Clay Heating in Compact Microhouse

Authors:
Harun Sabljaković, Sabina Filipović
Cylindrical Light Well with Clay Heating in Compact Microhouse

Project in-detail

A cylindrical light well and built-in clay chimney define a microhouse that seamlessly integrates nature with functional living spaces, promoting sustainable off-grid living in a compact form.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical light well enhances natural light and spatial perception.
02
Built-in clay chimney efficiently supports heating requirements.
03
Modular "moveonetes" allow flexible organization of living spaces.
04
Circular openings frame views and connect indoor and outdoor environments.
05
Sustainable materials are sourced locally to minimize environmental impact.

The "Pinecone" microhouse offers a modern solution to living in harmony with nature, balancing function and simplicity. Located in a boreal mountain area, the design seeks to create an environment where residents can reconnect with the natural world while enjoying essential comforts. The structure draws inspiration from local plants, particularly the shapes of pine trees and pinecones.

Design Concept
The core concept features a cylindrical light well at the center of the house. This design allows for abundant natural light, contributing to an open feeling within the compact space. Surrounding the light well are various areas designed for specific purposes, such as cooking, bathing, and relaxing. This layout helps maximize usability and encourages flexibility for different activities.

Spatial Organization
The microhouse prioritizes a minimalist approach, minimizing excess furniture to enhance the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large circular openings, inspired by tree hollows, frame views of the landscape and encourage interaction with the environment. These design choices promote a daily engagement with nature, enriching the living experience.

Material Use
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. A built-in clay chimney provides effective heating, contributing to overall comfort. Insulation techniques use local resources that help lower energy needs while maintaining a cozy atmosphere.

The design of the "Pinecone" microhouse is defined by the thoughtful circular openings that connect the interior spaces with the natural surroundings. These elements invite light and views into the home, creating a sense of warmth and clarity that enhances daily living.

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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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