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Passive House with Bio Block Masonry and Efficient Thermal Performance

Passive House with Bio Block Masonry and Efficient Thermal Performance

Project in-detail

Crafted with bio block masonry and equipped with a central multifunctional core, this passive house exemplifies efficient living by integrating sustainable materials and advanced thermal performance for urban or vacation settings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from bio block masonry, the design minimizes carbon footprint while enhancing thermal mass.
02
The central multifunctional core optimizes space, combining kitchen and bathroom facilities for efficient living.
03
Floor-to-ceiling windows ensure ample natural light and cross-ventilation throughout the interior.
04
Insulated membrane-lined gutters are integrated into the design to promote effective water management.
05
Foldable furniture elements provide adaptability, maximizing utility in the compact living space.

## Project Overview

Located in urban backyards and adaptable to varied vacation contexts such as mountainous or desert environments, the Core Prototype House combines minimalist design with functionality and environmental responsiveness. This passive house prototype aims to embody sustainable living principles while offering flexibility for diverse geographical applications.

### Spatial Organization

The spatial strategy revolves around a central core, defined by two intersecting rectangles at an obtuse angle, which segments the interior into four functional areas: sleeping, working, cooking, and leisure. The design facilitates a flow of spaces, enhancing user experience and optimizing spatial utility. With a footprint measuring 25 square meters (5m x 5m), the organization promotes efficient use of space. The central core integrates essential utilities including kitchen and restroom facilities, while strategically placed windows on the southern and northern elevations ensure optimal natural light penetration and cross-ventilation. The hipped roof design further enhances airflow, contributing to a comfortable living environment.

### Material Selection

Materials have been meticulously chosen for their thermal efficiency, durability, and ecological impact. Key elements include Kingspan Quadcore LEC Insulated Wall Panels for structural integrity and insulation, Bio Block Masonry Units known for their low carbon footprint, and plywood substrates that maintain structural stability while contributing to a minimalist aesthetic. The use of double-glazed, high-performance windows enhances energy conservation, and flexible PVC water pipes support the plumbing system. Additionally, insulated membrane-lined gutters facilitate effective drainage, minimizing potential water-related issues.

### Sustainable Features

This design incorporates several passive energy strategies that leverage natural resources for heating and cooling. The house features a rainwater collection system and strategic shading to reduce heat gain in warmer months. Thoughtfully designed foldable furniture optimizes the limited space, allowing for multifunctional usage. The architectural focus on air-tightness and continuous thermal protection minimizes thermal bridging, while the structure’s engineering maximizes passive heating and cooling effects based on ambient weather conditions, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. The combination of these elements exemplifies a commitment to sustainable living and resource management.

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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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