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Geodesic Micro-Homes Utilizing Low-Emissivity Glass Panels and Sustainable Steel Construction

Authors:
Chan jenyen , Ranjeev Singh A/l Surinder Singh , Yingying Tang, Timothy Miranda
Geodesic Micro-Homes Utilizing Low-Emissivity Glass Panels and Sustainable Steel Construction

Project in-detail

Crafted using geodesic designs with low-emissivity glass panels and sustainable steel, these micro-homes offer an efficient living solution for commuters, harmonizing modern construction with community-focused functionality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geodesic structure enhances stability while minimizing material usage.
02
Natural low-emissivity glass panels optimize energy efficiency.
03
Sustainable steel construction supports modular adaptability.
04
Integrated communal walkways foster social interaction among residents.
05
Designed for efficient living with flexible interior arrangements.

**Overview**
The Bubble Pods project, located along the Straits of Johor between Malaysia and Singapore, is a micro-housing initiative designed to provide affordable housing solutions for Malaysian workers commuting to Singapore. With approximately 350,000 individuals making this daily journey, the project aims to alleviate transit congestion and improve the living conditions of its residents. It is strategically positioned to take advantage of the surrounding natural landscape, enhancing community connectivity while promoting an integrated, sustainable lifestyle.

**Design Framework**
The architectural layout consists of six micro-homes arranged in a circular formation, optimizing both communal interaction and immersive natural views. Each pod features distinct areas for sleeping, living, working, and storage, while maintaining an overall floor area of 25 square meters. The ergonomic design promotes natural light and ventilation, enhanced by the use of modular furniture. Perimeter walkways connect the pods, facilitating social engagement among residents and access to the waterfront.

**Material Selection and Environmental Considerations**
The design employs a geodesic dome structure for its strength and minimal material usage, complemented by steel joinery to ensure structural integrity. Low-emissivity glass panels contribute to energy efficiency without sacrificing natural light, while reflective surfaces enhance the aesthetic value. Additionally, the integration of solar photovoltaic panels and a microbial wastewater treatment system underscores the project's commitment to environmental sustainability. These systems work in concert to reduce ecological footprints, making the Bubble Pods a model for future developments focused on both community and environmental stewardship.

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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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