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Egg-Shaped Capsule with R-34 Insulation and Photovoltaic Efficiency

Authors:
Kotayba Qadour, Baraa Oudah, Mhd ridwan Malakani, Hani Fakhani
Egg-Shaped Capsule with R-34 Insulation and Photovoltaic Efficiency

Project in-detail

With an egg-shaped structure that maximizes solar collection and R-34 insulation for thermal efficiency, the capsule offers a flexible living space designed for young professionals in an urban setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique egg-shaped form enhances structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.
02
R-34 insulation optimizes thermal performance in compact space.
03
Photovoltaic panels generate surplus energy for added sustainability.
04
Design allows seamless integration into both urban and rural environments.
05
Community station enables energy exchange among multiple capsules.

The design located in Downtown Vancouver addresses current housing needs by offering a compact, self-sufficient living option. The capsule is purposefully set close to the street, allowing for easy access to electric vehicle charging. It is tailored for a young couple, providing flexibility in how they use the space. The design concept emphasizes adaptability and simplicity, catering to modern urban living.

SUSTAINABILITY IN DESIGN

Sustainability is a key focus of the design. The capsule incorporates methods to collect renewable resources efficiently. By lifting the structure, the design reduces its overall footprint while enhancing its ability to gather solar energy and collect rainwater. These strategies align with eco-friendly practices, enabling residents to reduce their environmental impact and maintain an efficient home.

FUNCTIONALITY AND INTERIOR LAYOUT

The interior layout is designed to support various activities. It accommodates work, exercise, and relaxation, all within a compact area. Spaces are arranged to encourage easy movement throughout. For example, the workstation can serve the writer, while open areas invite moments of leisure. This flexibility reflects the shift toward multifunctional spaces in contemporary living environments.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS AND MATERIALS

The structure features technical specifications that enhance thermal performance. The exterior walls include 400 mm thick R-34 insulation, which helps keep the interior comfortable. Openable windows promote airflow while flexible photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, allowing for efficient power generation. These elements highlight the commitment to sustainability and efficiency found throughout the design.

The capsule's form takes inspiration from nature, featuring a curved roof that not only contributes to its visual identity but also improves functionality. This design aids in solar energy collection and rainwater management, aligning with the goals of resource efficiency and environmental consciousness.

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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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