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Cylindrical Structure With Local Timber and Solar Integration for Compact Living

Author:
Marco Avila oconitrillo
Cylindrical Structure With Local Timber and Solar Integration for Compact Living

Project in-detail

A cylindrical structure crafted from local timber and integrated with solar panels maximizes energy efficiency and natural light, serving as a compact living space in Costa Rica.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cylindrical shape reduces heat loss while maximizing interior space.
02
Integrated solar panels provide self-sufficient energy for daily use.
03
Large glass panels enhance natural light and outdoor views.
04
Local timber is used throughout to promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
05
Design accommodates vertical storage solutions to enhance functionality in a compact layout.

## Analytical Report on Silo-Home Architectural Design Project

### Overview
The Silo-Home, designed by Marco Avila Oconitrillo in 2023, is situated in the diverse landscapes of Costa Rica. This micro-home project aims to create a self-sufficient living environment that responds to the increasing interest in minimalist lifestyles. By integrating contemporary design with sustainability, the project promotes a balance between modern living and ecological responsibility.

### Materiality and Construction
Characterized by its cylindrical form, the Silo-Home utilizes materials that enhance both its structural integrity and aesthetic appeal. The main construction elements include:

- **Steel**: The structural framework is constructed from steel, providing stability and longevity.
- **Glass**: Large glass panels in the facade allow for ample natural light and unrestricted views of the surrounding environment.
- **Wood**: Interior finishes use locally-sourced wood, fostering a warm atmosphere while supporting regional sustainability efforts.

This combination of materials establishes an architectural identity focused on simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature.

### Spatial Strategy
The spatial layout of the Silo-Home is designed to optimize usability while maintaining a compact footprint. Multi-functional areas ensure adaptability to the needs of the occupants, featuring:

- **Open-plan Living Area**: The integration of the living space with the kitchen encourages interaction and communal living.
- **Bedroom Nook**: A dedicated sleeping area offers privacy while remaining visually connected to the communal spaces.
- **Vertical Storage Solutions**: Utilizing vertical space for storage reduces clutter and enhances the overall functionality of the interior.

### Sustainability and Environmental Design
Situated in the lush hills of Costa Rica, the Silo-Home employs passive design principles to enhance energy efficiency. Its strategic orientation facilitates natural ventilation and daylighting, thereby decreasing the dependency on artificial lighting and climate control systems. Furthermore, the installation of solar panels on the roof reinforces its commitment to renewable energy, ensuring the dwelling's self-sufficiency.

The Silo-Home exemplifies modern residential architecture that addresses ecological considerations while providing a thoughtful solution for contemporary 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
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