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Elevated Transparency Through Extensive Glazing and Steel Formwork in Compact Residential Design

Authors:
Paweł Stanisław Białas, Kamil Piotr Bryłka
Elevated Transparency Through Extensive Glazing and Steel Formwork in Compact Residential Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing extensive glazing and a steel framework, this compact residential design elevates its footprint within a post-industrial landscape while maximizing natural light and spatial adaptability for modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extensive use of glazing enhances natural light and connectivity to the outdoors.
02
Steel framework allows for an open-plan layout without structural interruptions.
03
Mobile storage solutions maximize space utility within the compact design.
04
Special pile foundations enable adaptability to diverse terrain conditions.
05
Integrated rainwater collection systems support sustainable living practices.

### Overview
The MICRObouse bigHOME project is situated on a previously industrial site, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living within an urban context. The design focuses on integrating modern architectural principles with ecological awareness and efficient use of space to create a functional residential unit. By reimagining the site, the project aims to provide a living environment that bridges the gap between urban and natural elements.

### Spatial and Material Strategy
The architectural layout features a compact geometric form that maximizes space efficiency through clean lines and a straightforward configuration. An extensive use of glazing on the southern façade enhances natural light and the overall visual connection to the landscape, while the design ensures structural integrity through a steel framework that allows for an open floor plan. Innovative Kingpan panels are incorporated into the walls and ceilings to optimize insulation properties, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Additionally, special pile foundations are employed to adapt to the site’s uneven terrain.

### Sustainable Features
The project emphasizes sustainability through various eco-friendly technologies, including a rainwater collection system and energy recovery ventilation. By minimizing resource consumption, the design promotes self-sufficiency and responsiveness to the post-industrial context. The landscape is kept in a rugged, natural state to encourage interaction with the environment, while minimalist outdoor spaces are designed to coexist harmoniously with the architecture.

Key materials, such as large glass panels and recycled components, are strategically selected to enhance both aesthetic appeal and environmental performance, thereby demonstrating a thoughtful approach to contemporary residential design.

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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
competition now

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