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Mineral Wool Insulated Community Spaces with Flexible Modularity

Author:
Trif Ilie-sorin
Mineral Wool Insulated Community Spaces with Flexible Modularity

Project in-detail

Constructed with mineral wool insulation and designed for flexible use, the building integrates distinct areas for community engagement, reading, and workshops, creating a multifunctional space that fosters interaction while emphasizing sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rook Area designed as a communal space with central fireplace for social interaction.
02
King Area features comfortable seating to promote relaxation and informal gatherings.
03
Queen Area includes bookshelves and a coffee machine to enhance reading experiences.
04
Knight Area is adaptable with modular furniture for various events and workshops.
05
Sustainable practices include solar panels and a rainwater harvesting system for reuse.

The project located at Kurgi Farm features a well-organized spatial layout inspired by the arrangement of a chessboard. Positioned in a tranquil environment, the design offers a blend of areas for community gathering and personal retreat. A key aim is to encourage flow between different zones, allowing movement throughout the spaces while keeping a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Spatial Organization

Inside the building, several distinct areas are defined, each serving specific purposes. The Rook Area rises to the top, functioning as a gathering space with a central fireplace. This area promotes social interactions and provides expansive views. Below, the King Area serves as a lounge space equipped with comfortable seating, encouraging relaxation and informal meetings.

Functionality and Adaptability

Adjacent to the King Area is the Queen Area, focused on reading and reflection. It includes shelves filled with books and a coffee machine to enhance the leisure experience. The Knight Area is notably versatile, designed for workshops and exhibitions. With modular furniture, it can be rearranged for different activities. This adaptability is crucial for meeting various programming needs throughout the building's use.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is clearly a priority in the design. Solar panels are implemented to provide energy for the lighting system, while rainwater is collected and reused. These features highlight a commitment to environmental responsibility and address the growing demand for sustainable architecture.

Materiality

The design employs a specific selection of materials, including square pipes, wainscot paneling, oriented strand board, and mineral wool with a thickness of 10 cm. These materials contribute to the structure’s strength and enhance its visual appeal, offering a variety of textures while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic.

The arrangement of these functional spaces creates an inviting atmosphere, encouraging interaction and engagement among users, while thoughtfully considering individual needs within its design.

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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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