Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Elevated Cardboard Structure Embraces Nature With Efficient Solar Integration and Flexible Living Spaces

Authors:
Claudio Zampaglione, Federica Gioja, Valeria Di Paola
Elevated Cardboard Structure Embraces Nature With Efficient Solar Integration and Flexible Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed from innovative cardboard materials, this elevated dwelling incorporates large glass panels and efficient solar integration to create a flexible retreat that connects seamlessly with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an innovative cardboard construction for lightweight, eco-friendly design.
02
Features extensive glass panels that enhance natural light and visual connection to the landscape.
03
Incorporates solar panels for energy independence and sustainable living.
04
Elevated design minimizes site disruption and maximizes scenic views.
05
Flexible interior spaces allow for modular living arrangements tailored to user needs.
The project represents a thoughtful exploration of sustainable living through innovative architecture. Designed as an open-air cardboard home, it embodies the principles of environmentally conscious construction while offering a contemporary living experience. This architectural endeavor focuses on harmonizing the relationship between inhabitants and their natural surroundings, promoting a lifestyle that is minimally invasive to the environment.

Functionally, the project serves as a retreat for individuals or families seeking a connection to nature devoid of urban distractions. Its design fosters outdoor living by creating spaces that seamlessly integrate both indoor comfort and outdoor engagement. The structure is elevated, allowing for unobstructed views and facilitating airflow, which enhances the overall experience of inhabiting the space. The carefully considered layout encourages activities that celebrate the natural environment, making it an ideal choice for a getaway or a permanent residence in remote areas.

The building's main components include the use of cardboard, steel, glass, and zinc coating, each chosen for their unique contributions to the overall aesthetic and functionality of the structure. Cardboard is notably utilized as a primary building material, demonstrating an inventive approach that challenges conventional perceptions of durability and longevity in residential architecture. This choice not only reduces the weight of the construction but also offers an eco-friendly alternative that elevates the project's sustainability credentials. The structural framework is reinforced with steel, ensuring that the home remains robust while maintaining a modern, clean-lined appearance.

Expansive glass panels are a defining feature of this architectural design, allowing natural light to permeate the interior spaces and inviting the beauty of the outdoors inside. This fluidity between inside and outside is further enhanced by cantilevered sections that participate in creating inviting outdoor spaces, which reinforce the concept of living in harmony with nature. The home also integrates sustainable energy solutions, such as solar panels, contributing to its off-grid capabilities and reducing reliance on external power sources.

The layout of the project is distinctly open-plan, providing flexibility and adaptability to cater to varying lifestyles. This configuration allows residents to rearrange spaces according to their needs, showcasing an intuitive understanding of modern living dynamics. The use of modular furniture enables further customization, allowing for a personalized touch that makes the space feel like home.

This project stands out due to its unique approach to sustainability and innovation. By prioritizing alternative materials like cardboard, the design challenges traditional architectural conventions and paves the way for more eco-conscious building methods. The project’s emphasis on passive heating and cooling strategies illustrates a commitment to energy efficiency, ensuring that the dwelling remains comfortable year-round without relying heavily on mechanical systems.

Overall, this open-air cardboard home exemplifies a forward-thinking perspective on architecture and design, focusing on providing comfortable living spaces that respect and integrate with the surrounding landscape. Its distinctive features and sustainable practices position it as a relevant model for future residential projects, inspiring a broader conversation about the potential for eco-friendly architecture. For those interested in learning more, further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas associated with this project will provide deeper insights into its innovative approach to modern living.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy