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Galvanized Steel and Pine Wood Cabins Emphasizing Community and Connection to Nature

Authors:
Carlos Montes gonzález, Francisco javier Fernandez garcía
Galvanized Steel and Pine Wood Cabins Emphasizing Community and Connection to Nature

Project in-detail

Constructed from galvanized steel and natural pine wood, the design emphasizes modular living and community interaction while maintaining an intimate connection to the surrounding landscape through its multifunctional spaces for meditation and social gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using modular elements for easy assembly and disassembly.
02
Features a façade of mobile panels that allows for adjustable light and privacy.
03
Incorporates solar panels for energy efficiency and sustainability.
04
Uses high-performance safety glass to enhance indoor-outdoor connections.
05
Designed with interconnected spaces that promote community interaction and reflection.

The project explores the concept of "open source," focusing on the complex relationship between society and nature. Situated in a natural environment, it aims to create spaces for inspiration and meditation. The design is adaptable, promoting a way of living that aligns with the surrounding landscape. Flexibility and community engagement are at the core, allowing the spaces to evolve according to the needs of the users.

Design Framework
The approach is modular and flexible, featuring interconnected areas such as halls, galleries, libraries, living rooms, meditation rooms, shared kitchens, and ateliers. This layout supports a variety of activities and encourages social interaction. At the same time, it provides private areas for personal reflection and quiet moments.

Materiality and Structure
Natural pine wood and galvanized steel sheets are key materials in the design. These materials contribute to the building's strength and aesthetic appeal. The use of layered roofs and floors helps regulate indoor temperatures, offering protection from external weather conditions. Safety glass is incorporated into the facades, allowing natural light to flood the interiors while creating a strong connection to the outdoor environment.

Construction Methodology
Built in a factory setting, the construction process emphasizes precision and reduces environmental impact on site. The design consists of pillars and beams that ensure stability. The exterior features mobile panels made of corrugated galvanized steel, which control light and privacy. This method of construction also streamlines logistics and enhances the overall expression of the architecture.

Sustainable Features
Solar panels are integrated into the design, addressing energy efficiency and promoting self-sufficiency. The project highlights a commitment to sustainability with features that are ecologically sensitive. It reflects a contemporary understanding of modular living, which prioritizes resource efficiency and environmental harmony.

One notable design element is the extensive use of glass, which facilitates a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. This incorporation of light creates an atmosphere that invites users to engage with their natural surroundings, enhancing the overall experience of the space.

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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
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