Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Off-Grid Living With Trapezoidal Forms and Abundant Natural Light

Authors:
Geoffrey Li, Tzu-tung Chang
Off-Grid Living With Trapezoidal Forms and Abundant Natural Light

Project in-detail

Employing trapezoidal forms and off-grid sustainability, the design provides adaptable living spaces that maximize natural light and resource efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular configuration allows for three distinct assembly options.
02
Trapezoidal forms enhance structural stability and visual coherence.
03
Off-grid design integrates photovoltaic panels for renewable energy.
04
Natural light is optimized through strategically placed skylights.
05
Adaptability accommodates varying living conditions and user preferences.

The DUCKO architectural design project presents a modular living solution that incorporates the principles of minimalism and sustainability. Located in an unspecified geographical area, the design provides efficient living spaces using interchangeable modules. The concept emphasizes flexibility while ensuring that each element maintains a cohesive visual language, highlighting the importance of sustainable practices in residential spaces.

Modular Configuration

The project consists of three main modules: Module A, with a square footage of 206.5 ft² (19 m²), Module B measuring 133 ft² (12.35 m²), and Module C, which features an extended section of 2' x 14'. Each module stands at a consistent height of 14', allowing for a uniform appearance regardless of the configuration. This modular design encourages various combinations, such as Module A + B + C, Module A + B, and Module B + C, catering to different living conditions and user preferences.

Sustainable Living

The concept of "live in moderation" lies at the heart of DUCKO's design, reflecting the fleeting nature of life and the environment. The project is designed to operate off the grid, utilizing photovoltaic panels to generate renewable energy and collecting rainwater for use. These features significantly reduce the environmental impact and promote sustainable practices, aligning with current demands for eco-friendly living solutions.

Natural Light and Space Utilization

The architecture employs wrapping windows and skylight systems that break the facade, allowing natural light to illuminate the interior. These openings create a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, enhancing the quality of life for residents. The layout addresses practical circulation and storage needs effectively, ensuring that essential functions are seamlessly integrated into the design while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.

Attention to Detail

While specific materials are not mentioned in the texts, the focus on sustainability implies a preference for eco-friendly choices that balance functionality and visual appeal. DUCKO demonstrates how modular elements can be thoughtfully arranged to promote simple living without sacrificing sophistication. The inclusion of well-designed storage solutions and the use of skylights highlight the commitment to creating high-quality living spaces that align with modern architectural principles.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy