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Diagonal Layout Featuring Kingspan Panels and Aluminum Cladding in a Compact Living Space

Author:
João Francisco Cordeiro De Morais Vieira
Diagonal Layout Featuring Kingspan Panels and Aluminum Cladding in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing a diagonal layout and constructed with Kingspan panels and aluminum cladding, this compact micro-house exemplifies efficient living tailored for a young professional couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
Diagonal spatial organization enhances natural light flow and ventilation.
02
Constructed with Kingspan QUADCORE panels for superior insulation.
03
Features a modular design that allows for future adaptability.
04
Integrates an outdoor terrace that merges with the surrounding landscape.
05
Includes a flexible staircase that optimizes vertical space usage.

### Project Overview

Located in an arid landscape characterized by golden grasslands, the "Diagonal" micro-house spans 25 square meters and is designed specifically for a young professional couple. This modular structure emphasizes a balance between compact living and functional design while integrating harmoniously with its surroundings. The house's layout and architectural choices promote a significant connection with nature, reflecting a strategic approach to modern living.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The interior layout is organized around a prominent diagonal axis, dividing the space into communal and private zones. The ground floor features interconnected living areas, including a kitchen, dining space, and essential bathroom amenities, while the upper level houses a bedroom with an adaptable work area, connected by a mobile staircase. This design fosters fluid movement and encourages flexibility, allowing for future adaptations to accommodate evolving lifestyle needs.

Natural light is a key element within the design, thanks to large, strategically placed windows that enhance the overall spatial experience while providing picturesque views. The use of lighter wood finishes enhances the interior's warmth against the sleek, modern exterior of steel and aluminum cladding, creating a balanced ambiance that caters to both comfort and aesthetic appeal.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials employed in "Diagonal" reflect a commitment to sustainability without compromising durability or cost-effectiveness. Kingspan QUADCORE AWP LEC Wall Panels contribute to the building's thermal efficiency, while a steel substructure provides robustness. Aluminum and wood are utilized in the exterior cladding and interior finishes, respectively, creating a harmonious visual contrast. Additionally, ceramic surfaces in the communal areas are chosen for their aesthetic quality and ease of maintenance.

This careful selection of materials not only reduces the structure's environmental impact through low embodied carbon footprints but also demonstrates a sophisticated approach to eco-friendly design principles that advance the future of residential architecture.

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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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