Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Flexible Living Spaces Defined by OSB Panels and Rice Paper Screens

Authors:
Marta Rodriguez Fernandez, Lene Fourie
Flexible Living Spaces Defined by OSB Panels and Rice Paper Screens

Project in-detail

Combining adaptable OSB panels and rice paper screens, the design introduces a compact living solution that seamlessly transforms to meet diverse functional needs in various environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes OSB panels for structural support while maintaining lightweight flexibility.
02
Incorporates rice paper screens that enhance both aesthetic appeal and privacy.
03
Features a central water collection system integrated within the design.
04
Adapts to various living arrangements with easily movable components.
05
Employs solar panels for renewable energy efficiency in a compact footprint.
The Fan Microhome project is a compact architectural design that focuses on versatility and sustainability. This micro-home serves multiple functions, adapting to the needs of its occupants while addressing contemporary challenges in housing and space utilization. Its unique structural design, reminiscent of a butterfly's unfolding wings, allows for fluid adjustments that cater to diverse living requirements in tight urban settings or during emergencies.

The project includes several key functional components. A central anchor panel houses essential facilities such as a shower, fostering water conservation and supporting eco-friendly living. Flanking panels extend outward, offering designated areas for sleeping and working, while also facilitating the transformation of spaces for various activities. Folding screens crafted from rice paper enhance privacy and provide a tactile element to the interior environment, allowing users to modulate their living space efficiently.

Important design characteristics of the Fan Microhome involve an innovative combination of materials. Using lightweight oriented strand board (OSB) panels ensures structural integrity while allowing ease in transport and assembly. Waterproof fabrics are integrated into the exterior, ensuring durability against weather elements. The inclusion of solar panels contributes to its self-sufficiency, highlighting the project's commitment to renewable energy resources.

Unique Design Approaches

What distinguishes the Fan Microhome from traditional housing solutions is its exceptional adaptability. It is designed to function as a transient living space, which makes it suitable for various demographics, including remote workers, travelers, or individuals in need of temporary shelter during crises. The flexible layout allows residents to customize their environment based on individual preferences, promoting a sense of autonomy within compact confines.

Additionally, the micro-home embraces community-oriented design principles. Positioned as part of a larger array of units, the Fan Microhome fosters social interaction and collaboration within neighborhoods that prioritize shared resources and communal living. The design encourages a rethinking of spatial boundaries—where compact living does not equate to limited interaction or experience.

Architectural Choices and Implications

The architectural choices made in the Fan Microhome reflect a commitment to efficiency and sustainability. With a focus on minimizing ecological footprints, the project showcases how small-scale developments can provide practical solutions to housing shortages. The integration of renewable energy, select materials that promote longevity, and functional versatility supports a narrative that aligns with contemporary urban living challenges.

The Fan Microhome stands as an example of how innovative architectural design can redefine our understanding of residential spaces. The project invites a reevaluation of traditional design philosophies, encouraging exploration into new architectural plans and concepts that prioritize adaptability, sustainability, and community-driven solutions. To delve deeper into the architectural plans and sections, and to explore the detailed design elements of the fan microhome, interested readers are encouraged to review additional material regarding this project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16,979 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