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Expansive Windows and Local Timber Create a Sustainable Retreat

Author:
Olga Sushko
Expansive Windows and Local Timber Create a Sustainable Retreat
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With expansive windows that frame the surrounding landscape and locally sourced timber employed for its structure, the microhome offers a sustainable retreat designed for immersive nature experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Expansive windows provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Constructed entirely from locally sourced timber to minimize environmental impact.
03
The open-plan layout maximizes natural light and spatial flow.
04
The design supports the installation of solar panels for energy independence.
05
Compact shape allows for efficient use of space in varied natural settings.

The Hytta Microhome is a well-designed tiny cabin focused on simplicity, functionality, and sustainability. Its location can vary, from mountains and forests to coastal areas, making it a suitable retreat for those who wish to be close to nature. The design concept prioritizes a modest yet elegant structure, allowing it to blend in with the surrounding landscape.

Form and Function

The shape of the Hytta Microhome conveys a sense of efficiency and compactness. It is designed to fit harmoniously within its environment, avoiding any disruption to nature. The extensive use of windows allows for ample natural light to enter, creating a bright and open atmosphere inside. An open-plan layout enhances spatial flow, making the interior feel larger and more connected to the outdoors.

Sustainable Design

Sustainability plays a critical role in the design of the Hytta Microhome. Locally sourced wood is used for the facades, structure, and walls, which helps to reduce its environmental impact. This choice supports local communities and provides a natural aesthetic that complements the surroundings. The warmth of wood enhances the cabin's inviting feel while minimizing the carbon footprint.

Innovative Features

The roof of the cabin is designed to accommodate solar panels, allowing for energy independence. This feature supports the cabin's off-grid potential, giving occupants the ability to generate renewable energy. By incorporating such systems, the design aligns with modern practices that emphasize sustainability while maintaining practicality.

Attention to Detail

Every aspect of the Hytta Microhome reflects careful planning, with details chosen for their purpose and impact. The simple shape combined with large windows creates a strong connection to the surrounding landscape, promoting a sense of peace for those inside. The integration of natural materials and sustainable practices results in a functional living space that respects and enhances the environment.

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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

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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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