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Modular Micro-Home with Rockwool Insulation and Polycarbonate Facade

Author:
Maximilian Gehron
Modular Micro-Home with Rockwool Insulation and Polycarbonate Facade

Project in-detail

Constructed with a modular framework of Rockwool insulation and enhanced by a polycarbonate façade, this micro-home optimizes urban space while providing efficient living solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed to fit into narrow urban gaps, enhancing space utilization.
02
Utilizes a unique Rockwool lightweight system for superior insulation and fire resistance.
03
Features a polycarbonate façade that maximizes natural lighting while maintaining thermal efficiency.
04
Designed for modularity, allowing multiple configurations to adapt to resident needs.
05
Incorporates natural ventilation through strategically placed window casements for climate control.

"ZERO HOME" is a design focused on addressing housing challenges in cities where high population density makes affordable living spaces hard to find. The micro-home concept offers a solution that emphasizes efficient use of limited space. Its modular nature allows it to adapt to various urban environments, making it suitable for different community needs.

Design Concept

At the heart of "ZERO HOME" is a modular structure shaped like a shoebox, which can be arranged in several ways depending on the site. These configurations include vertical placements in tight urban gaps or horizontal layouts that maximize space. This flexibility allows for diverse living arrangements, making it possible for the design to cater to a broad range of residents and their evolving needs over time.

Spatial Organization

An important aspect of the design is how it integrates public and private areas. A functional core connects essential rooms like the kitchen and bathroom, enhancing the livability of compact spaces. This core acts as a central point, guiding movement throughout the home and ensuring that the overall layout remains practical while optimizing the available area.

Energy Efficiency

"ZERO HOME" aims to meet energy standards by incorporating features that promote sustainability. The walls are built using a lightweight construction system that provides excellent insulation and supports the structure’s framework. Complementary metal profiles strengthen the overall design. The façade, made from polycarbonate materials, supports thermal performance, allowing ample light into the space while keeping energy use low.

Ventilation Strategies

Ventilation is a key consideration in achieving comfort within the home. The design includes windows that facilitate natural airflow, leveraging convection to help keep indoor temperatures pleasant, particularly in warm weather. This natural ventilation approach reduces energy demands, improving overall living conditions.

The building includes an inclined façade that functions both as a roof and a wall. This detail not only helps with rainwater drainage but also increases the amount of space available inside. Such thoughtful design elements reflect a commitment to creating functional living environments even within the constraints of urban settings.

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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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