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Engineered Timber Homes With Golden Ratios for Urban Living

Authors:
Shema John, Murugan A
Engineered Timber Homes With Golden Ratios for Urban Living

Project in-detail

Engineered timber structures utilizing golden ratios create adaptable housing solutions in Paris, accommodating various household types while reinforcing a connection to the urban environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy reconfiguration of units within existing structures.
02
Internal layouts utilize golden ratios for optimal spatial efficiency.
03
Construction prioritizes engineered timber, enhancing sustainability.
04
Facades are made from GRP frames using recycled materials.
05
Design integrates modern living with the cultural context of Paris.

The design focuses on modular housing that uses golden ratios to improve spatial layout for different types of households, including singles, couples, and families. Located in Paris, the concept blends modern living solutions with elements of the city’s rich cultural heritage. The goal is to create not only functional homes but also spaces that resonate with the historic context, enhancing the urban landscape in which they exist.

Modular System

Three different housing types make up the design. The family module measures 21 feet by 13 feet, with internal spaces divided into 8-foot and 5-foot sections. Similarly, the couple module offers the same dimensions, making efficient use of space for two people. There is also a single module, which is 13 feet by 2 feet by 13 feet, and it applies the same proportional layout. This consistency ensures a unified approach across multiple housing options.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Flexibility is a key feature of these modular homes. They can fit into existing buildings or be arranged in various combinations within a single block. This ability to adapt is particularly relevant in addressing modern housing challenges. It allows for an effective use of space, enabling residents to find living arrangements that can change according to their needs.

Cultural Context and Materiality

The design reflects contemporary styles while honoring the essence of Paris. Fast-growing engineered timber is used for the structure, emphasizing sustainability in construction. The facade is made with glass reinforced plastic (GRP) frames that are shaped from recycled materials. This choice aligns with environmental considerations and showcases innovative building practices.

The design emphasizes natural light, featuring well-placed windows that allow sunlight to fill the interiors. This focus enhances the overall experience of the spaces while reinforcing the project’s commitment to vibrant living environments. The thoughtful arrangement of these windows plays a significant role in making the homes feel welcoming and open.

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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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