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Cylindrical Shelters Featuring Sustainable Wood Cladding and Efficient Solar Integration

Author:
Serhii Tsymbal
Cylindrical Shelters Featuring Sustainable Wood Cladding and Efficient Solar Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with cylindrical forms and enhanced by solar energy technology, this habitat integrates sustainable wood materials to provide a resilient and adaptable living space for displaced communities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a cylindrical form to maximize natural light and views.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a built-in rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
04
Constructed with prefabricated components for quick assembly in crisis situations.
05
Designed with a mezzanine to optimize spatial efficiency and flexibility.

### Project Overview
Located in a context where displacement due to conflict and natural disasters is prevalent, the Shelter project aims to create a multifunctional and sustainable housing solution for affected individuals. The design focuses on providing permanent residences that foster a connection to nature while ensuring economic viability and minimal environmental impact. The project emphasizes an adaptive living environment, combining modern architectural principles with practical functionalities to address urgent housing needs.

### Spatial Functionality and Internal Layout
The internal arrangement prioritizes user experience and efficient use of space, incorporating distinct areas tailored for various functions. Key features include an open-plan studio space (12.50 m²) that supports both living and working activities, private bedrooms (6.0 m² and 5.60 m²) designed with sound insulation for privacy, and a spacious communal living area (21.0 m²) that encourages social interaction. Additionally, a compact bathroom (2.0 m²) ensures essential services are readily available without unnecessary resource consumption. The inclusion of a mezzanine provides versatile options for storage or additional sleeping space. The floor plan strategically optimizes functionality while allowing for both communal and private experiences.

### Innovative Energy Solutions
Energy efficiency is a crucial focus of the Shelter project. Employing passive solar design principles, the structure maximizes natural light and thermal gain to reduce reliance on artificial heating. Advanced technologies such as heat exchangers enhance heating capabilities by redistributing warmth generated by a fireplace, while mechanical ventilation systems maintain air quality and thermal efficiency. The implementation of solar panels and a rainwater collection system underscores the project's commitment to sustainability, further ensuring energy independence and resource conservation. The design's adaptability allows for rapid assembly and transportation, making it a timely and effective response to housing emergencies.

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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