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Deciduous Courtyards and Modular Forms in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Author:
Carlo Bughi
Deciduous Courtyards and Modular Forms in a Sustainable Residential Setting

Project in-detail

A central courtyard with a deciduous tree enhances seasonal comfort while modular twin modules crafted with brick slips and zinc provide flexible living spaces in a sustainable residential layout.
5 key facts about this project
01
The arrangement centers on a flexible courtyard that functions as a winter garden.
02
Each module combines a Main and Junction for efficient transport and assembly.
03
The design incorporates green roofing for effective rainwater management.
04
A deciduous tree in the courtyard allows for seasonal climate adaptation.
05
Photovoltaic panels are integrated into the roof to enhance energy efficiency.

The Quad project reveals an innovative approach to housing, designed as a modular courtyard house that maximizes both space and environmental benefits. Comprised of four twin modules arranged around a central courtyard, the layout is effective for both private living and social engagement. The courtyard can serve as an outdoor space that adapts to the seasons, with a deciduous tree providing shade in warmer months and allowing for solar gain during the colder months. This thoughtful integration of nature into the design creates a pleasant living environment.

Core Design Elements
Key areas within the layout include an entrance, living room, study, kitchen, utility space, office, multiple bedrooms, an en-suite, a shower room, and a patio. This widespread distribution of functional areas ensures that the home meets various needs, from relaxation to productivity. The design encourages movement and interaction among family members while providing personal spaces.

Module Configuration
Each module is made up of two components: the Main (M) and the Junction (J). The Junction can be used as an extension of the Main or to connect different modules together. Remarkably, these elements can be transported either together or separately, fitting within standard container sizes. This feature enhances the practicality of the design, making it easier to assemble on-site.

Sustainability and Materiality
The Main module features a three-pitch roof, which offers different options for cladding such as brick slips and zinc. The green roofing system helps manage rainwater and insulate the building. Moreover, the roof is designed to accommodate photovoltaic panels, which can generate energy based on the roof's orientation. These features underscore a commitment to sustainability in residential design.

Cluster Arrangement
The design allows for various configurations, from single modules measuring 19.5 m² to clusters that can reach up to 78 m². Including the footprint of the courtyard, the total area can amount to 98 m². This flexibility supports the creation of dense arrangements while keeping the modules inward-facing. This layout ensures privacy by minimizing exposure to the outside while maximizing natural light.

The irregular shapes of the modules create an engaging relationship with the landscape, allowing the structure to blend with its surroundings. The design promotes an inviting atmosphere, making connections between indoor and outdoor spaces an integral part of the living experience.

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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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