Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Hexagonal Living Spaces Enhanced by Charred Wooden Shingles and Efficient Glazing

Author:
Scott Zhou
Hexagonal Living Spaces Enhanced by Charred Wooden Shingles and Efficient Glazing

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and hexagonal modular units combine to create adaptable living spaces that prioritize sustainability and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide durability and enhance fire resistance.
02
Hexagonal modular design enables versatile spatial configurations.
03
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber panels promotes sustainability.
04
Passive solar features optimize energy efficiency throughout the year.
05
Adaptable community areas foster social interaction among residents.
The Eco Hive represents a modern approach to sustainable architecture, designed to address the pressing issues of urban housing shortages. It combines innovative modular construction with environmentally responsible materials to create living spaces that are adaptable to a variety of settings. The project emphasizes flexibility, allowing units to be tailored to individual needs while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic that resonates with both natural and urban environments.

The overall design is characterized by a hexagonal configuration, inspired by natural forms such as beehives. This geometry not only maximizes space efficiency but also fosters a sense of community among residents. The exterior features a combination of concrete and extensive glazing, facilitating thermal performance and natural light entry, enhancing the living experience without compromising energy efficiency.

### Modular Design with Local Contextualization

One of the distinguishing features of the Eco Hive is its modular architecture that can be easily expanded or adjusted to fit different site conditions. Each unit has been conceived as a self-sufficient space with the potential for integration with additional modules. This flexibility enables easy construction in varying geographical locations, from urban centers to rural outskirts. Furthermore, the design encourages community interaction, with common areas that promote social engagement amongst residents while preserving individual privacy.

The selection of materials further enhances the project's uniqueness. The use of concrete for structural integrity is paired with wooden finishes in the interior spaces, providing a tactile contrast and promoting sustainability through the use of renewable resources. Large glass panels allow for transparency and connectivity with the outdoors while supporting passive solar heating strategies, thus underlining the commitment to energy efficiency.

### Sustainability and Livability

Eco Hive also focuses significantly on sustainable living. The architectural design incorporates renewable energy sources such as solar panels, which contribute to the overall energy autonomy of each unit. Water-efficient fixtures and rainwater harvesting systems further enhance the sustainability aspect, reducing dependency on municipal resources. This design approach aligns with contemporary architectural ideas that prioritize ecological considerations, making it a progressive model for future housing developments.

The interior layout encourages multipurpose use, integrating living, working, and recreational spaces into a cohesive environment. This adaptability is essential for modern lifestyles, where flexibility and functionality are paramount.

For a deeper understanding of the Eco Hive project, including architectural plans and sections, exploring the detailed presentation of its design elements is highly recommended. By reviewing the specific architectural ideas underpinning this project, readers can gain further insights into its innovative approach to contemporary housing challenges.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy