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Passive Design Featuring Corrugated Metal and Timber Integration for Compact Living

Author:
Shane Byrnes
Passive Design Featuring Corrugated Metal and Timber Integration for Compact Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with corrugated metal roofing and timber elements, this compact residence employs passive design principles to enhance sustainability while providing a functional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a corrugated metal roof for durability and rainwater management.
02
Incorporates large glass panels for natural light and scenic views.
03
Features a space-saving ladder for access to the elevated bedroom.
04
Employs passive design for energy efficiency and comfort.
05
Integrates a multifunctional layout promoting flexible living spaces.

## Project Overview

Situated in Hawksnest, New South Wales, this residential design addresses the challenge of housing affordability for young Australians by proposing a compact living solution that prioritizes functionality and comfort. The intent of the project is to create a sustainable alternative that avoids the excessive footprint associated with larger homes while maximizing the usability of each space.

### Layout and Spatial Configuration

The interior layout consists of nine distinct functional areas:
1. **Dining/Lounge Area**: Designed for flexibility, this space accommodates various activities, from dining to relaxation.
2. **Kitchen and Prep**: The kitchenette optimizes usability within a compact footprint.
3. **Home Office**: An integrated workspace enhances productivity in a residential setting.
4. **Walk-in Robe**: This feature offers ample storage without disrupting the aesthetic flow.
5. **Laundry Space**: Efficiently designed for utility and accessibility.
6. **Bathroom**: A functional space that keeps essential fixtures within easy reach.
7. **Ladder to Bedroom**: A space-saving design element that leads to elevated sleeping quarters.
8. **Bedroom**: Provides a private retreat within the compact structure.
9. **Deck**: Expands living space outdoors, reinforcing the connection to the natural environment.

### External Design and Material Considerations

The structure features a corrugated metal roof, notable for its durability and aesthetic appeal, enhanced by a gentle curve that integrates with the landscape while facilitating effective rainwater drainage and insulation. Large southern-facing glass panels maximize natural light and frame views of the surrounding flora, promoting a strong visual connection with the outdoors. The wooden deck contributes warmth and supports outdoor living activities.

Material selections reflect sustainability goals and design integrity:
- **Corrugated Metal Panels**: Used for roofing, these low-maintenance materials align with modern architectural aesthetics.
- **Timber**: Likely utilized in the deck and internal fixtures, enhancing the organic ambiance of the spaces.
- **Glass**: Extensive use of glazing optimizes natural light and facilitates indoor-outdoor interactions.
- **Insulation Materials**: High-performance insulation is essential to meet passive house standards, enhancing energy efficiency.

This project exemplifies a commitment to rethinking small living through intelligent design, advocating for a lifestyle that combines comfort, sustainability, and an intrinsic connection to nature.

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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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