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Flexible Living Spaces Enhanced by Sliding Insulated Panels and Climate-Responsive Design

Author:
Souha Bou Matar
Flexible Living Spaces Enhanced by Sliding Insulated Panels and Climate-Responsive Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing sliding insulated panels that adapt to seasonal changes, this residence harmonizes with its environment while providing versatile living spaces tailored for modern lifestyles.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a dual-module design for enhanced flexibility in living space.
02
Incorporates sliding insulated panels for seasonal adaptability.
03
Features high-strength steel framing for durability and stability.
04
Employs double-glazed glass for effective thermal insulation.
05
Integrates landscaped courtyards to foster outdoor interactions.

## Project Overview

Located in southern Lebanon, the Shifting Planes project integrates architectural design with the region’s natural landscape, emphasizing adaptability and user-centric living. The intent is to develop a flexible living environment that accommodates diverse lifestyles and activities, taking full advantage of the area's climatic conditions and serene settings.

## Modular Structure

The design is anchored by a dual-module configuration: a stationary core and a dynamic sliding module. The core serves fundamental functions, including a bathroom, kitchenette, and necessary technical amenities, all supported by a high-strength steel frame. In contrast, the sliding module provides an open-plan space that can be adjusted to meet varying user requirements, thus promoting versatile usage for different occasions.

### Climate Adaptation

Attention to climate responsiveness is evident throughout the design, which employs passive solar strategies and natural ventilation. Large windows and strategically placed ventilation pathways enhance indoor comfort year-round. Seasonal adaptability is built into the architecture, with features that allow natural light and airflow to be maximized or minimized as needed, ensuring that occupants remain comfortable regardless of external weather conditions.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Material choice reflects a commitment to sustainability and performance. Kingston insulated panels for exterior cladding enhance thermal efficiency and reduce maintenance; high-strength steel provides structural durability; and wood decking, alongside metal grates, creates a balance against the building's metallic elements. Additionally, double-glazed glass strategically minimizes thermal gain while allowing unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, thereby fostering a connection with nature.

### Multi-functional Spaces

Design flexibility is further exemplified through multi-functional spaces. Configurations include a workspace that doubles as a sleeping area, a glasshouse extension designed for gatherings and leisure, and a courtyard that facilitates social interactions. Further areas, such as an observatory, promote a tranquil setting dedicated to activities like painting and stargazing, enhancing the overall user experience.

The project incorporates sliding panels that connect indoor and outdoor spaces, enabling residents to enjoy open-air living. Integrated landscaping contributes to biodiversity while improving aesthetic appeal and air quality, reinforcing the project's commitment to environmental integration.

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

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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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