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Hydroponic Living Within Compact Kingspan-Clad Structure

Author:
Shani Taiwo Shnayder
Hydroponic Living Within Compact Kingspan-Clad Structure

Project in-detail

Integrating a hydroponic tower within a compact Kingspan-clad structure, this residence offers sustainable living solutions for urban dwellers in Nigeria.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a hydroponic tower for in-home food production.
02
Constructed with Kingspan insulated panels for energy efficiency.
03
Features large panoramic windows for optimal natural light.
04
Utilizes a greywater recycling system for sustainable water use.
05
Designed for adaptability within a compact 25-square-meter footprint.

### Project Overview

Ilé Kékéré, which translates to "small house" in Yoruba, is an architectural intervention located in Nigeria, aimed at alleviating the ongoing housing deficit in the country. Designed specifically for a young professional couple, the project occupies a compact 25-square-meter footprint and emphasizes modularity, sustainability, and self-sufficiency. It addresses the challenges of urban living in Nigeria and promotes accessible housing solutions within a metropolitan context.

### User-Centric Spatial Strategy

The design employs an open-plan layout, fostering flexibility to adapt to the inhabitants’ diverse needs. Essential functional areas—including a living space, kitchen, bath, and bedroom—are strategically arranged to optimize space utilization and maintain comfort. This approach emphasizes human-centered design, ensuring that every element contributes to an inviting and practical living environment.

### Climate Responsive Materiality and Construction

The project responds to Nigeria's tropical climate by implementing specific strategies for ventilation, insulation, and solar orientation to enhance thermal comfort and energy efficiency. The use of locally-sourced materials, such as Kingspan insulated roof and wall panels, gypsum ceiling board, and timber flooring, supports sustainability goals while minimizing environmental impact. Additionally, the incorporation of features like panoramic windows enhances natural light and integrates the indoor space with the external environment. Noteworthy elements include a hydroponic tower for food production, underscoring a commitment to self-sufficiency and innovative urban living.

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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
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