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Egg-Shaped Micro-Home with Photovoltaic Yarn and Water Management System

Author:
Yurii Papikian
Egg-Shaped Micro-Home with Photovoltaic Yarn and Water Management System

Project in-detail

The egg-shaped structure, constructed with ecological cement and featuring photovoltaic yarn, efficiently integrates water management systems to create a compact micro-home that maximizes living space and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features a unique egg shape that minimizes surface area and enhances energy efficiency.
02
Rainwater is collected through a corrugated shell design that directs runoff into a filtration reservoir.
03
The interior layout supports ergonomic living with separate zones for work and rest in a compact footprint.
04
Photovoltaic yarn is integrated into the dome, generating solar energy for improved sustainability.
05
3D printing technology is used to create complex surface geometries, allowing for innovative design solutions.

The Ovoid architectural concept offers a fresh perspective on micro-home design, emphasizing space efficiency and sustainability. Located within varied natural settings, the structure covers a compact area of 25m². It addresses the common issue of limited space in modern housing while creating an inviting living environment that meets contemporary needs. The overall design is marked by an egg shape, which enhances functionality and provides aesthetic appeal.

Design Concept

The egg shape of the Ovoid reduces the overall surface area, which contributes to higher energy efficiency and durability. This design allows for integration into different landscapes, strengthening the relationship between the built and natural environments. By using advanced 3D printing technology, the construction achieves intricate surface geometries in less time. This approach not only allows for a unique appearance but also aligns with sustainable building practices.

Spatial Organization

Inside the Ovoid, the layout features two distinct levels. The ground floor holds essential living spaces, such as a living area, kitchen, bathroom, and laundry room, along with additional storage options. The mezzanine level works to enhance the home's utility, providing space for a bedroom, workspace, and wardrobe. This thoughtful arrangement makes efficient use of the available space and helps promote comfortable daily living.

Natural Light and Water Management

Natural light is an important aspect of the Ovoid's design, achieved through six carefully placed windows. These openings allow plenty of daylight to fill the interior, creating an illusion of more space and maintaining a connection to the outside. The design also effectively manages rainwater with a corrugated shell that directs water into gutters. The collected rainwater is then stored for filtration and reuse, reflecting the project's focus on sustainability.

Materials and Energy Systems

The construction features ecological cement and reinforced elements, which provide strength and contribute to energy efficiency. Insulation is strategically included in the shell to help maintain a comfortable internal climate. The use of photovoltaic yarn on the dome’s surface is particularly notable, enabling the structure to generate solar energy. This energy system supports the goal of minimizing environmental impact.

Light streams through the dormer window at the top of the dome, illuminating the interior and emphasizing the unique curves of the egg-shaped design. The result is an inviting and well-lit living space that feels open, creating a calming atmosphere within the compact structure.

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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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