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Natural Stone Cladding and Concrete Frame in Compact Affordable Housing Design

Author:
Ana Goreta
Natural Stone Cladding and Concrete Frame in Compact Affordable Housing Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with a robust concrete frame and natural stone cladding, this compact housing solution efficiently combines sustainability with affordability to meet essential living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a combination of natural stone cladding and a concrete frame for enhanced durability.
02
Design incorporates large glass windows to maximize natural light while maintaining privacy.
03
Modular layout allows for rapid assembly and adaptability to various site conditions.
04
Sustainable materials were selected to reduce environmental impact and ensure longevity.
05
Compact dimensions optimized for essential living spaces without sacrificing comfort.

## Overview

Located within urban and semi-urban areas facing housing shortages, the project emphasizes affordable and functional housing solutions. The design’s intent centers on simplicity and the possibility of mass production, employing a modular approach that reflects contemporary minimalism while addressing the needs of potential homeowners under economic constraints.

### Spatial Configuration

The internal layout of the unit is crafted with compact dimensions of 5x5x5 meters, promoting efficient use of space.

- **Ground Floor**: This level features a living area, kitchenette, and bathroom, designed for multifunctionality to maximize the utility of the available square footage.
- **First Floor**: A private sleeping area and additional functional space are incorporated, fulfilling essential residential needs without excess area.
- **Vertical Connectivity**: A strategically placed staircase enhances movement between floors, optimizing vertical space while maintaining a cohesive design.

### Materiality

Material selection is integral to the design philosophy, focusing on durability and sustainability:

- **Vernacular Stone Cladding**: The exterior utilizes natural stone cladding, combining a traditional aesthetic with robust durability and low maintenance requirements.
- **Concrete Frame**: A concrete frame ensures structural integrity, effectively supporting the compact form against environmental challenges.
- **Glass Windows**: Large windows enhance natural light within the interior, promoting a sense of openness and strategically providing privacy.
- **Metal Frames and Roofing**: The lightweight metal roofing and structural frames are designed for weather resistance and longevity, contributing to the project's sustainable attributes.

### Community Integration and Modularity

The project allows for the replication of individual units, providing flexibility in neighborhood design suited to varying plot sizes and configurations. The isometric representation highlights a layout that encourages social interaction among residents, fostering a sense of community. By utilizing local materials such as stone and glass, the design reflects environmental considerations, ensuring relevance to its context while supporting a sustainable approach to affordable housing.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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