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Modular Home Design Utilizing Composite Cladding and Integrated Photovoltaics

Author:
Erik Ohanyan
Modular Home Design Utilizing Composite Cladding and Integrated Photovoltaics

Project in-detail

Utilizing modular construction with composite cladding and integrated photovoltaics, this residence adapts to future family needs while promoting energy efficiency and seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design to allow for future expansion without compromising structural integrity.
02
Incorporates composite cladding for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a green courtyard integrated into the layout for improved natural ventilation.
04
Maximizes energy efficiency with strategically placed photovoltaic panels on the roof.
05
Employs large glass windows to enhance natural light and create a connection with the outdoor environment.

### Overview

Located in a modern urban context, the design is conceived to address evolving family dynamics and accommodate varying household sizes. The structure is characterized by its methodological approach to modularity, focusing on adaptability and sustainability through a phased expansion strategy. Each element of the architectural composition reflects a commitment to contemporary aesthetics while respecting contextual nuances and community engagement.

### Modular Expansion Strategy

The design employs a phased approach to expansion, allowing the residence to grow alongside its occupants:
- **Phase One** establishes a foundational three-bedroom layout.
- **Phase Two** introduces a second floor featuring four additional bedrooms.
- **Phase Three** encompasses the addition of two bedrooms on the first floor, providing flexibility as family needs change.

This modularity ensures that the home remains functional and relevant over time, positioning it as a responsive living environment.

### Integration of Sustainability and Materiality

Environmental considerations are integral to the design, which features rooftop photovoltaic panels that optimize solar energy capture while providing necessary shading. A centrally located green courtyard enhances natural cooling and promotes outdoor engagement. The material selection focuses on natural elements, including decorative plaster for the exterior, wood/polymer composite cladding for durability and aesthetic value, and expansive glass for ample sunlight, enhancing both energy efficiency and the sense of spaciousness within living areas.

The spatial organization carefully balances functional requirements with aesthetic considerations. Shared spaces are strategically located to foster interaction among family members, while private sleeping quarters are discreetly arranged to enhance personal retreat. This thoughtful configuration allows for a harmonious flow between communal and private spaces, contributing to an overall enhanced user 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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