Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Hwangto Housing With Ctesiphon Structure for Self-sufficient Living

Authors:
Byoung hoon Jeong, Gi jin Han, Haein Kim, Yebin Kim
Hwangto Housing With Ctesiphon Structure for Self-sufficient Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with Hwangto and utilizing a Ctesiphon structure, this housing solution integrates self-sufficiency and traditional elements to support the needs of self-employed individuals in Jeju Island.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hwangto is used for insulation and humidity control.
02
A double outer skin enhances energy efficiency and wind resistance.
03
Daecheong provides natural cooling and heating functions.
04
Ondol panels offer traditional underfloor heating throughout.
05
Modular design promotes flexibility for self-employed occupants.

NEW. C.T. addresses the need for adaptable living and working spaces for self-employed individuals on Jeju Island. Emerging from the socio-economic pressures brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, this initiative merges traditional housing concepts with modern needs. The design offers low-cost modular units that support both residential and commercial functions. These spaces encourage a sustainable lifestyle and foster community engagement while allowing safe interactions in market settings.

Material Selection

Hwang To, a traditional Korean soil, serves as a key material in this design. Known for its insulation and humidity control, it aims to maintain a comfortable living environment while reducing energy use. The project also incorporates recycled concrete, which contributes to sustainability by minimizing construction waste and promoting economic efficiency. Additionally, wood is used in various elements, adding warmth and visual appeal that connects the homes with the local natural environment.

Architectural Features

The design features an arch-shaped roof, which effectively reduces wind resistance. This thoughtful form aligns with the climate conditions on Jeju Island, addressing both aesthetic concerns and energy efficiency. A double outer skin in the Ctesiphon structure provides insulation while lessening the impact of wind forces, proving useful for the micro housing concept.

Traditional Elements

Key traditional elements are integrated into the design, such as Daecheong. This feature enhances cooling in summer by utilizing wind convection and ensures warmth during winter months. The C-shaped building layout protects the courtyard from intense winds, contributing to a stable internal climate. Such traditional components meet the cultural and functional needs of the residents.

Thermal Strategy

An important aspect of the thermal design is the use of Ondol panels, a traditional Korean underfloor heating system. It operates by warming the air below the floors, creating even heat distribution throughout the living spaces. The synergy of Hwang To as a finishing material supports heat retention while improving insulation.

The design illustrates a blend of traditional practices with modern living requirements. It prioritizes comfort and functionality while maintaining a strong connection to cultural heritage.

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