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Flexible Living Spaces With Glulam Beams and Integrated Photovoltaics

Authors:
Romain Jacques K Russe, Roshni Chirag Shah, Pablo Rafael Herraiz Garcia De Guadiana
Flexible Living Spaces With Glulam Beams and Integrated Photovoltaics

Project in-detail

Constructed with interlocking modules of glulam beams and integrated photovoltaic systems, this residential space optimally blends sustainable materials with functional design to create adaptable living and working environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes interlocking modular units to enhance community engagement.
02
Incorporates integrated photovoltaic systems into the roofing structure.
03
Features a greenhouse wall for natural ventilation and plant growth.
04
Constructed with glulam beams for lightweight structural efficiency.
05
Includes flexible interior layouts to accommodate live-work arrangements.

## Overview

ChromeHome is situated in a suburban context, designed to address the needs of young professionals requiring both living and working spaces. The project aims to revitalize economically challenged areas by offering accessible housing solutions while promoting small business opportunities. Its prefabricated, modular design allows for flexibility and adaptability, making it responsive to various urban environments and the evolving demands of modern lifestyles.

## Spatial Strategy and Community Engagement

The design employs a modular framework that creates interconnected living units, fostering a community-focused atmosphere. The arrangement allows for optimal space utilization while providing both private and communal areas. Curved interior layouts encourage movement and interaction, guiding residents seamlessly between shared spaces and individual living quarters. The incorporation of outdoor spaces and large windows enhances interaction with the environment and supports social engagement among residents.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Mozilla's use of sustainable materials and technologies is evident throughout. The incorporation of flexible photovoltaic panels ensures renewable energy generation, while the polished metal facade not only offers aesthetic appeal but harmonizes with the surrounding environment. Durable glulam timber beams provide structural support with a modern look, while thermal insulation properties are enhanced by triple-glazed balcony doors. The design further promotes sustainability through features like a greenhouse wall that captures heat and supports plant growth, optimizing energy use within the living environment. Additionally, the implementation of rainwater harvesting systems underscores a commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

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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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