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Folding Panel Systems in Sustainable Plywood Housing with Natural Ventilation

Folding Panel Systems in Sustainable Plywood Housing with Natural Ventilation
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Utilizing a unique folding panel system and sustainable plywood, this Kyoto residence integrates natural ventilation and communal spaces to enhance modern living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a folding panel system for adaptable roof and wall configurations.
02
Incorporates natural vegetation within living spaces to enhance indoor air quality.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and sustainability.
04
Includes shared communal areas to foster neighborhood interaction.
05
Designed for optimized microclimate management through strategic airflow.

## Project Overview

"Borrow the Breeze" is a residential design initiative located in Kyoto, Japan, that harmonizes modern architectural practices with the natural environment. The project is developed with an intent to enhance the quality of living while respecting the historical and cultural context of the area. By fostering a connection between residents and their surroundings, the design aims to create a supportive community atmosphere.

## Spatial Configuration

The architectural layout employs a distinctive vertical organization, characterized by a combination of open and enclosed spaces that promote a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor environments. This arrangement emphasizes natural air circulation and cross-ventilation, facilitating improved comfort and health for residents. The two-level design enhances functionality while encouraging interaction and engagement among community members.

## Material Utilization

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in establishing the project’s identity, focusing on sustainability and aesthetic quality. Concrete is implemented for structural stability, providing longevity and resilience, while Kingspan UnQuad polycarbonate panels are used for moveable wall systems that allow for natural light and privacy. Plywood is integrated to bring warmth and texture to interior spaces, and the use of natural vegetation supports the project’s ecological goals. These material selections contribute to overall thermal comfort and environmental performance, reinforcing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

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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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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025
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