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Glazing and Wood Paneling in a Versatile Living Space

Authors:
Cassidy Ho, Tony Le, Dana Kim
Glazing and Wood Paneling in a Versatile Living Space

Project in-detail

With extensive glazing and wooden paneling that fosters natural light and warmth, the design creates a versatile living space that adapts to multiple functions while blending harmoniously into its diverse landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Extensive use of glazing maximizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
02
Wood paneling provides warmth and improves acoustic comfort throughout the interior.
03
Flexible spatial arrangements enable seamless transitions between private and communal areas.
04
Sustainable features include photovoltaic panels that support energy efficiency.
05
The integration of hydraulic lifts ensures accessibility for all occupants.

The design presents a thoughtful response to the needs of modern living through a clear arrangement of spaces dedicated to rest, work, and daily activities. Set against a backdrop of diverse landscapes, including mountains and flat terrains, the project captures the essence of its environment while focusing on the practical requirements of its users. The concept centers on flexibility, allowing different areas to adapt to various functions and user interactions.

Spatial Configuration

The layout thoughtfully divides the project into distinct functional areas. Rest spaces are carefully equipped with items that enhance comfort, such as beds and tables, along with essential storage options. This arrangement supports the efficient use of space, allowing each area to serve its purpose without feeling cluttered.

Responsive Design

A key feature involves how elements interact within the design. Components can shift and adjust, fostering a dialogue between private areas and communal spaces. This dynamic setup makes it easy for occupants to transition between different activities throughout the day.

Material Choices

Materials play an important role in shaping the overall feel of the space. Large areas of glazing make room for natural light, creating a bright and open atmosphere. Wooden finishes in flooring and paneling add warmth, making the environment inviting. Steel framing provides a strong foundation and supports various spatial configurations while photovoltaic panels enhance energy efficiency.

Distinctive Features

Additional details include LED lighting that is integrated into different areas, allowing for adaptable illumination depending on the time of day or activity. Shoji doors provide flexibility in space use and incorporate cultural elements into the design. Features like hydraulic lifts and various mechanical elements ensure accessibility throughout the building, marrying modern conveniences with practical design for everyday use.

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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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