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Natural Light-Infused Microhome with Local Wood and Generous Glazing

Author:
Iulia maria Popa
Natural Light-Infused Microhome with Local Wood and Generous Glazing

Project in-detail

With its extensive use of local wood and high-quality glass to maximize natural light, this microhome exists as a tranquil retreat in the forest, emphasizing a deep connection to nature while providing a compact living space for self-reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced wood for construction.
02
Features high-quality glass openings for natural light.
03
Compact footprint of 24.35 square meters.
04
Emphasizes a minimal invasive approach to the environment.
05
Designed to facilitate self-reflection and tranquility.

The microhome design emphasizes a simple and practical approach to living, set in a tranquil forest landscape. With a small footprint of 24.35 square meters, the structure serves as a retreat from city life, aimed at enhancing the connection between individuals and nature. The design concept revolves around minimalism and sustainability, addressing the need for a comfortable living space while encouraging introspection.

Building Integration

The structure is carefully integrated into its surroundings, blending harmoniously with the natural environment. The design respects the existing topography and flora, ensuring that the home does not overshadow its landscape. This thoughtful integration promotes a sense of peace, making it an ideal escape from urban distractions.

Spatial Configuration

Inside, the microhome features an open layout that encourages movement and interaction among occupants. The arrangement prioritizes spaciousness, helping to create an atmosphere that invites relaxation and self-reflection. Large glass openings allow natural light to fill the space, reinforcing the connection between the inside and the outside.

Materiality

Locally sourced wood plays a significant role in the design, providing warmth and comfort throughout the home. This choice not only supports sustainability but also enhances the relationship between the dwelling and its natural surroundings. The high-quality glass elements are designed to optimize energy use for lighting and heating, effectively complementing the wooden features.

Environmental Considerations

The extensive glazing helps dissolve the boundaries between interior and exterior areas, offering broad views of the forest. This design choice reduces energy consumption and aligns with an ethos of environmental responsibility. The microhome stands as a representation of modern living characterized by ecological sensitivity and a strong bond with nature.

Natural light streams through the windows, framing the lush greenery outside and creating a dynamic living space that feels connected to the world beyond its walls.

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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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