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Photovoltaic Louvres and Central Circulation in Community Living Spaces

Author:
David Le masney
Photovoltaic Louvres and Central Circulation in Community Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Centered around a central circulation core, the design incorporates photovoltaic louvres to enhance sustainability, creating a dynamic co-living space that fosters community interaction in the heart of Rome.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central circulation core promotes social interaction among residents.
02
Photovoltaic louvres enhance energy efficiency and privacy control.
03
Flexible communal areas accommodate diverse activities and gatherings.
04
Balconies designed for varying orientations cultivate outdoor engagement.
05
Rainwater collection system supports sustainable water management.

The design project situated in Rome presents a new approach to co-living that fits within the city’s dense and rich urban environment. It occupies a 0.5-hectare block and focuses on integrating both residential units and communal spaces. The aim is to create a living space that fosters community while addressing the need for diverse housing solutions. The design respects the historical context of Rome, offering a modern touch that coexists with the architectural character of the city.

Central Circulation Core

A key feature of the design is a central vertical circulation area that includes stairs, a lift, and a shallow ramp. This core serves as the main pathway for residents, encouraging movement throughout the building. It also acts as a gathering point, promoting social interactions among neighbors. The choice to place this core in a prominent location reflects a commitment to enhancing community living.

Private and Communal Areas

The floor plan carefully balances private and communal spaces. Private units are organized to serve essential functions like sleeping and bathing, while shared areas are designated for cooking and dining. This layout encourages residents to come together, creating opportunities for interaction and support. Communal spaces are flexible, designed for various activities and gatherings, which strengthens the social fabric of the living environment.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays an important role in the design. Photovoltaic panels are installed to generate electricity and double as louvres for light control and privacy. The building utilizes stack and cross ventilation to improve air quality and comfort. A rainwater collection system is included to help manage water resources, along with a centralized waste management system that connects to existing municipal services.

The façade incorporates balconies with diverse orientations, allowing residents to connect with the outdoors. These spaces not only enhance the overall design but also provide areas for socialization and relaxation. The intention is to create a living environment that promotes community while respecting the unique character of Rome.

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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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