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Cylindrical Roof and Moveonetes in a Sustainable Microhouse

Authors:
Harun Sabljaković, Sabina Filipović
Cylindrical Roof and Moveonetes in a Sustainable Microhouse

Project in-detail

With a cylindrical roof that directs light into a central space and modular units designed for flexible living, this microhouse in a boreal mountain setting emphasizes sustainability and a strong connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical light well enhances natural illumination throughout the interior.
02
Modular "moveonetes" allow for flexible spatial configurations.
03
Roof perforations mimic natural patterns to promote ventilation and aesthetics.
04
Integration of rainwater collection systems for sustainable water management.
05
Use of locally sourced spruce plywood reduces environmental impact.

The "Pinecone" microhouse is designed to address modern living needs while being situated in a boreal mountain environment. This small, off-grid dwelling emphasizes sustainability and seeks to reconnect inhabitants with nature. The overall form resembles a single elevated roof, which houses different functional areas and encourages interaction with the surrounding landscape.

Design Concept
At the heart of the microhouse lies a cylindrical light well that enhances openness throughout the living spaces. This feature allows natural light to filter deeply into the interior, avoiding the cramped feeling often found in small homes. Surrounding this central element are modular units known as "moveonetes." These units can be adjusted based on the residents' requirements, adding flexibility to the design.

Structural Elements
The design takes a minimalistic approach, reducing excess furniture and clutter. Circular openings draw inspiration from tree hollows, establishing a visual and physical connection with the outdoors. The outer surface of the roof cylinder is perforated with patterns reminiscent of natural forms, which not only improves aesthetics but also allows for necessary ventilation.

Materiality
Sustainability is a key focus in the choice of materials. The roof cone effectively captures and directs sunlight into the living areas, while waterproof insulation within the plywood structure ensures comfort through varying weather conditions. The use of spruce plywood panels finishes the interiors and allows for versatile spatial arrangements, promoting easy movement in the compact living area.

Sustainable Systems
Water management and energy efficiency are vital components of the design. Systems for collecting rainwater and managing snow melt are built into the structure, helping to minimize environmental impact. Solar panels provide the necessary energy for daily living needs, further aligning with the design’s commitment to sustainability and efficiency.

The roof's patterned surface invites changing light conditions and shadows into the home, creating a constant dialogue between the interior space and the environment outside.

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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

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