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Dynamic Hydraulic Living Space Crafted with Recycled Coffee-Density Fiberboard and Zinc Cladding

Dynamic Hydraulic Living Space Crafted with Recycled Coffee-Density Fiberboard and Zinc Cladding

Project in-detail

Employing a dynamic hydraulic lift system and recycled coffee-density fiberboard, this compact residential design redefines flexible living by seamlessly adapting its space for diverse daily functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled coffee-density fiberboard for sustainable construction.
02
Features a hydraulic lift system for adaptable floor height.
03
Compact footprint of 25 m² designed for versatile living.
04
Incorporates solar panels for off-grid energy efficiency.
05
Zinc standing seam cladding enhances durability and weather resistance.

### Architectural Design Report: The Lift Home

#### Overview

The Lift Home is situated in both urban and rural contexts, designed to adapt to various living environments while prioritizing sustainability and flexibility in residential architecture. The project aims to provide a versatile living space that responds to diverse needs across different times of day, establishing a framework for inclusive and functional living. The architectural strategy focuses on maximizing a compact footprint while incorporating innovative design elements that enhance livability.

#### Spatial Configuration

The structural design is centered around a square form, encompassing 25 m² (5x5m) and emphasizing both practicality and symbolic significance. Unique features such as a Hydraulic Lift System allow for dynamic flooring that adjusts to accommodate different activities and user requirements. The layout includes fixed zones for essential rooms, including kitchen and bathroom areas, while facilitating an open, airy environment. Foldable steps improve accessibility, ensuring a smooth flow of movement throughout the space.

#### Material Selection

The material palette reflects a commitment to sustainability, integrating innovative components that promote environmental responsibility:

- **Light Steel Framing** serves as the foundational structure, ensuring rapid assembly and durability.
- **Coffee-Density Fiberboard (CDF)**, made from recycled coffee grounds, contributes to the eco-friendly ethos, used in wall panels and flooring.
- **Zinc Standing Seam Cladding** offers robustness and weather resistance, enhancing both visual appeal and performance.
- An **Insulated Roof Panel** supports effective thermal regulation, optimizing comfort throughout varying weather conditions.
- **Solar Panels with Inverter-Batteries** enable off-grid functionality, harnessing renewable energy for sustainable living.
- The **Hydraulic Lift Column** exemplifies engineering innovation while enhancing the adaptability of residential spaces.

The Lift Home's architectural approach integrates advanced design techniques and sustainable practices, addressing contemporary challenges in the residential sector while setting a precedent for future developments in adaptable living environments.

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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
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Kinderspace
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