Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Elevated Living with Transformable Spaces and Fiberglass Features

Authors:
Ainur Akhmedina, Maiya Sagymova, Aidana Mustafina
Elevated Living with Transformable Spaces and Fiberglass Features

Project in-detail

A transformable kitchen with fiberglass features and an elevated living area integrates nature and functionality in a compact residence designed for two in the urban environment of Astana.
5 key facts about this project
01
Transformable kitchen allows for flexible space use.
02
Summer terrace enhances outdoor living opportunities.
03
Elevated living area provides additional storage beneath.
04
Fiberglass sheets contribute to lightweight, durable construction.
05
Integrated design focuses on maximizing natural light.

The compact living solution designed for two individuals fits within the urban context of Astana. The overall design concept focuses on creating spaces that feel human-scale in a city where buildings often seem very far apart. By placing residences into underused areas such as parking lots and vacant plots, the design aims to foster a sense of community and personal belonging within a crowded environment.

Layout and Functionality

The design features a two-level layout that organizes living spaces effectively. The first floor includes key areas: a living space that also serves as a workspace, a cooking area, a bathroom with a shower, and small storage options. This setup creates a versatile environment where daily activities can happen without losing connection to each other.

Transformational Features

A key element of the kitchen is its ability to change form. The table and chairs are designed to fold away into the wall, which allows for more open space when needed. This flexibility is further enhanced by the wall that opens up to a hidden terrace, promoting an outdoor connection while increasing the overall livability of the area.

Spatial Organization

The design elevates the living or working area, distinguishing it from other parts of the home. This separation not only adds a visual dimension but also enhances privacy. Under the raised section, additional storage can be found, making smart use of the available space without cluttering the interior.

Material Selection

The building employs selected materials such as fiberglass sheets, galvanized thermal profiles, mineral wool plates, and vapor barrier films. These materials are important for their durability and energy efficiency. They not only support the structure but contribute to a sustainable approach in this urban setting.

An opening wall leads to a summer terrace on the first floor, inviting natural light and outdoor air into the living space while providing a private outdoor retreat. This design detail connects the indoor and outdoor environments, allowing for a fuller enjoyment of the surrounding space.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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 17,725 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