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Monochrome Retreat Emphasizing Multifunctionality and Natural Light

Author:
Aleksandra Klińska
Monochrome Retreat Emphasizing Multifunctionality and Natural Light

Project in-detail

A compact microhome with extensive glazing and a multifunctional layout, designed to create a harmonious balance of indoor and outdoor living while accommodating the needs of a young couple.
5 key facts about this project
01
A hidden worktop extends from the kitchen wall for space efficiency.
02
The wardrobe doubles as a relaxation area and workspace.
03
Extensive glazing enhances natural light and outdoor views.
04
Rainwater collection is facilitated by a single-fall roof design.
05
Monochrome and blue color scheme creates visual harmony.

The microhome is designed for a young couple, positioned to encourage interaction with nature. It features essential living areas: a kitchen, workspace, bedroom (antresol), bathroom, and compact wardrobe. The design focuses on making the most of a small space while ensuring a strong connection between inside and outside.

Design Integration

The layout promotes a blend of indoor and outdoor living, enhancing the experience for residents. Large windows throughout the facade allow natural light to fill the interior, creating a warm and welcoming environment. This design choice not only looks good, but it also brings the outside in, encouraging the occupants to enjoy their surroundings.

Flexible Space Utilization

Adaptability plays a key role in the design, allowing different areas to serve more than one purpose. Zones within the microhome can be closed off when not in use, helping to maintain an organized look. The kitchen includes a worktop that can be hidden away, and the wardrobe also serves as a lounge or workspace. This flexibility enables the couple to make the most of their living area based on their daily needs.

Sustainable Design Choices

The single-fall roof is a practical element that makes construction easier while supporting sustainable practices. It captures rainwater, which can be used for gardening or other outdoor needs. Well-placed windows enhance insulation and energy efficiency, giving occupants views of the outdoors. These features support an environmentally friendly approach.

Aesthetic Considerations

The color scheme is mostly monochromatic and blue, with wooden accents included in key furnishings. A wooden table and chairs create a warm touch, connecting modern design with familiar elements. This careful selection of materials not only provides a harmonious look but also helps occupants feel at home.

The arrangement of space, light, and materials creates a functional and inviting environment for those living in the microhome.

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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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