Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Hexagonal Living Spaces With Photovoltaic Facades and Integrated Hydroponics Systems

Authors:
Aikaterini Kofinaki, Sophie Jade Jackson, Oscar Elliott Binns Hughes, Iain Andrew Reece
Hexagonal Living Spaces With Photovoltaic Facades and Integrated Hydroponics Systems

Project in-detail

Combining hexagonal modules with photovoltaic facades and hydroponic systems, this design creates a flexible and sustainable living environment that prioritizes community interaction and ecological responsibility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hexagonal modular configuration allows for flexible space adaptations.
02
Integrated hydroponics systems promote sustainable indoor gardening.
03
Precast concrete panels enhance thermal efficiency and durability.
04
Photovoltaic facades generate renewable energy for the home.
05
Central courtyard fosters community interaction and connectivity.

### Overview
Located within a contemporary urban context, Khalia exemplifies a synthesis of modern residential requirements with traditional cultural values. This project emphasizes sustainability, adaptability, and social interconnectedness, aiming to enhance the residential experience for diverse family structures. The architecture employs a modular design approach that facilitates flexibility in living arrangements while respecting heritage and community dynamics.

### Spatial Strategy
The spatial organization centers around a configurable modular system, referred to as the "living comb," composed of hexagonal units. This design maximizes spatial efficiency and encourages familial and communal interaction. The central courtyard serves as a focal point, reinforcing community ties by connecting the various living spaces and providing a platform for social engagement. Additionally, the layout allows for expansion or contraction depending on the family size and needs, thereby promoting both privacy and connectivity.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Khalia prioritizes sustainable practices through its choice of construction materials and systems. Precast concrete panels and glass reinforced concrete are utilized for their structural integrity and thermal efficiency, while aluminum features in the window and door frames for lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties. Energy efficiency is further enhanced by integrating thermal mass materials, photovoltaic panels for solar energy generation, and hydroponic systems for eco-friendly indoor gardening. Moreover, the project incorporates green roofs and water recycling systems to manage resources effectively and support biodiversity, illustrating a comprehensive commitment to environmental stewardship.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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