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Elevated Living with Sustainable Timber and Cellulose Insulation

Author:
Kirsti Sveindal
Elevated Living with Sustainable Timber and Cellulose Insulation

Project in-detail

The rooftop terrace offers a serene escape while the structure's integration of sustainable timber and cellulose insulation highlights its commitment to environmentally responsible living in a compact residential format.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rooftop terrace designed for outdoor sleeping and relaxation.
02
Utilizes cellulose insulation made from recycled paper.
03
Compact footprint allows for efficient urban land use.
04
Bio-wc system minimizes ecological impact.
05
Interior features multifunctional spaces for various activities.

The Woodscraper is a compact living solution designed for urban environments, combining function, sustainability, and privacy within a small footprint. This four-story building allows for efficient use of space while promoting a connection to nature. The design focuses on vertical living, providing distinct areas tailored to various activities and enhancing the experience of urban life.

Design Concept
The architecture of the Woodscraper emphasizes vertical stacking of spaces. By concentrating different functions into a limited area, it minimizes land use while ensuring comfort and privacy for its residents. This strategic arrangement promotes a thoughtful coexistence of various living zones, addressing the needs of individuals within a compact layout.

Outdoor Integration
At the top of the structure, a dedicated terrace serves as a versatile outdoor space. This area invites opportunities for relaxation and socialization while offering a unique view of the city. The terrace encourages residents to engage with nature, providing a serene escape from the bustling streets below.

Functional Layout
Inside the Woodscraper, the layout is highly efficient. The kitchen includes essential appliances such as a sink and a portable gas hub that can be hidden away to maintain a tidy appearance. The bathroom features a bio-wc and practical amenities, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. Utility areas located below ground hold a cistern, grey-water tank, and other essential components, thereby preserving the natural landscape while ensuring functionality.

Material Utilization
Materials are essential to the overall design of the Woodscraper. Timber is used as the main structural element, chosen for its durability and sustainable properties. Cellulose insulation, made from recycled paper, enhances energy efficiency and supports an environment that breathes. Plywood is present in ceilings, walls, and shelves, contributing to a cohesive look throughout the interior while promoting usability and comfort.

The design makes effective use of solar panels on south-facing walls, which capture renewable energy. This energy powers built-in lamps that provide efficient indoor lighting. Such thoughtful details enhance the Woodscraper as a clear example of modern urban living carefully balanced with sustainability.

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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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