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Geometric Forms Enhancing Natural Light in Compact River Chelmer Residence

Author:
Harry Risk
Geometric Forms Enhancing Natural Light in Compact River Chelmer Residence

Project in-detail

Large windows frame views of the River Chelmer, allowing abundant natural light to fill the geometric forms of a compact microhome designed for efficient living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large windows enhance natural light and provide views of the River Chelmer.
02
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to sustainability and energy efficiency.
04
Zoning allows for versatile use and adaptability within the compact layout.
05
Geometric forms create a modern aesthetic while maintaining functionality.

The Meadow Walk Microhome project offers a practical approach to compact living beside River Chelmer. It emphasizes efficiency and usability, aiming to create comfortable residential spaces while making the most of a small footprint. The design concept focuses on blending indoor living with the natural landscape, allowing the microhome to interact positively with its surroundings.

Spatial Efficiency

The layout of the Meadow Walk Microhome features a well-thought-out arrangement of spaces that facilitates easy movement among the various areas. Living, sleeping, and utility spaces are clearly defined, ensuring that all essential functions are covered within the limited area. This careful organization meets the needs of modern residents, resulting in a living experience that is both practical and adaptable.

Natural Integration

A notable aspect of the design is its connection to the surrounding environment. The structure includes large windows and thoughtfully placed openings that invite natural light into the living spaces. This design choice enhances the interior atmosphere and creates a sense of openness. The views of the nearby landscape are incorporated into the daily experience of the residents, allowing them to feel more connected to nature.

Material Considerations

The presentation does not detail the specific materials used in the construction of the Meadow Walk Microhome, but the approach suggests a preference for sustainable and long-lasting choices. This aligns with current trends in compact housing, where reducing environmental impact is a key focus. Materials likely emphasize durability and energy efficiency, helping to create a home that remains functional and attractive over time.

Design Outcomes

The outcomes of this microhome design reflect a focus on practical and sustainable living solutions. The simple geometric forms contribute to a modern look that promotes a minimalist lifestyle. It encourages residents to connect with their environment, highlighting a way of living that values sustainability.

Large windows provide views of the River Chelmer and bathe the interior in light, enhancing the relationship between the microhome and its pleasant setting. Natural light flows through each thoughtfully planned space, enriching the daily experience of those who call this microhome their home.

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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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