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Metal and Wood Integration in a Flexible Urban Residence

Authors:
Ahmed maher Rashid, Mohammed abbood Gatea
Metal and Wood Integration in a Flexible Urban Residence

Project in-detail

The integration of metal and wood creates a flexible living space that adapts to urban lifestyles while addressing the needs of a professional couple in a compact 25 m² footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Compact footprint of 25 m² optimized for urban living.
02
Integration of metal and wood to enhance durability and warmth.
03
Innovative lighting system that adjusts to natural light changes.
04
Flexible interior spaces designed for multiple uses.
05
Sustainable energy solutions incorporated throughout the design.

The design explores the concept of integrated dualism, situated in an urban environment. It provides a living space that adapts to the complex needs of modern life. With a compact footprint of 25 m², it centers around the idea of the "Professional Couple." This theme promotes a balance between individual elements and their combined function. The result is a home that values flexibility, sustainability, and simplicity in its design.

Materials Utilization

Materials play a significant role in the project, emphasizing the dualism concept. Metal is prominently featured in both structural and aesthetic aspects, providing strength while contributing to a modern appearance. The inclusion of wood adds warmth, creating a softer contrast. Together, these materials tell a story about the design philosophy, blending the sturdy with the natural.

Spatial Configuration

The layout is designed for flexibility, with spaces that can serve multiple purposes. This adaptability meets the varied demands of its users. The arrangement of rooms encourages social interaction and allows for simple movement throughout the space. Each area has been planned carefully, considering how people will navigate and inhabit their surroundings.

Lighting and Sustainability

An important feature of the design is its approach to lighting. The ceiling system adjusts to natural light levels during the day and provides electric light from stored energy at night. This careful planning reflects a commitment to sustainability. It also enhances life within the space, ensuring light meets the needs of residents at different times.

Attention to Detail

Attention to detail is evident in various elements throughout the design. For instance, the use of invisible screws contributes to clean lines without sacrificing structural strength. This choice allows for a clear and modern look. The integration of such features helps emphasize the simplicity that characterizes the overall design.

Transitions between spaces are thoughtfully defined. Careful placement of openings creates connections between indoor and outdoor areas. This invites inhabitants to experience a fluid relationship with their environment, enhancing the overall living experience.

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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

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