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Modular Living Crafted from Kingspan Sandwich Panels with Emphasis on Energy Efficiency

Author:
John Barry Gimutao
Modular Living Crafted from Kingspan Sandwich Panels with Emphasis on Energy Efficiency

Project in-detail

Crafted from energy-efficient Kingspan sandwich panels, this compact dwelling redefines urban living through its adaptable design and modular construction, providing a versatile space for modern habitation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Kingspan sandwich panels for enhanced insulation and structural strength.
02
Features modular construction allowing for quick assembly and adaptability.
03
Incorporates moveable walls enabling flexible interior configurations.
04
Designed with a raised flooring system for efficient utility management.
05
Maximizes natural light through an integrated SOLATUBE skylight system.

### Overview

Located in Berlin, the Back to Basics House addresses contemporary challenges in urban housing, particularly around affordability and spatial efficiency. In response to the increasing inadequacies in housing for young professionals, the project aims to provide practical solutions through its architectural design, reflecting a consideration for both context and functionality.

### Spatial Organization and Functional Design

The design of the house encompasses a compact area of 25 square meters, featuring an open plan that can be adapted for various uses, including living, dining, and working. This layout strategically separates essential service zones, like the kitchen and bathroom, from the main living space, allowing for greater versatility. The incorporation of movable walls and wardrobe systems enables occupants to modify their living environment to suit different activities, emphasizing a minimalist approach that does not sacrifice comfort or utility.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials plays a significant role in the house’s performance and aesthetic. Key components include Kingspan Sandwich Panels for insulation and structural integrity, alongside a lightweight yet durable roof system. Prefabricated modules for the kitchen and bathroom streamline construction, enhancing efficiency. The design integrates the SOLATUBE Skylight System to maximize natural light while reducing energy consumption. By utilizing straightforward framing techniques and focusing on modular construction, the house promotes sustainability through resource efficiency and an easy assembly process.

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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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