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Photovoltaic Roof Catchers and Kingspan Insulation Transforming Urban Rooftops Into Sustainable Living Spaces

Author:
Santiago Mata Santillana
Photovoltaic Roof Catchers and Kingspan Insulation Transforming Urban Rooftops Into Sustainable Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Utilizing Kingspan insulation and photovoltaic roof catchers, this urban initiative transforms underutilized rooftops into functional, sustainable living spaces for city residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Kingspan insulated panels for superior thermal efficiency.
02
Features a modular design for quick assembly and adaptability.
03
Integrates photovoltaic roof catchers for sustainable energy generation.
04
Employs 2000-litre slimline tanks for efficient rainwater harvesting.
05
Incorporates communal green spaces to foster urban biodiversity.

## Project Overview

The project aims to convert underutilized rooftop spaces in urban environments into functional, eco-friendly living areas. Focusing on addressing contemporary housing challenges, it offers sustainable solutions in densely populated metropolitan areas. By enhancing existing structures rather than developing new ones, the design seeks to promote a balanced coexistence of personal space and community interaction while prioritizing environmental consciousness.

## Spatial Configuration

The design introduces adaptable housing typologies that cater to specific site conditions and resident needs. These units—ranging from private sleeping spaces to communal gardens—strike a balance between individuality and collaboration. Spatial divisions are planned to foster social interaction without compromising personal privacy, with interiors designed for multifunctionality. The project also features dynamic facades that integrate with the urban landscape, utilizing expansive windows to enhance natural light and ventilation while creating visual connectivity with the city.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The project employs advanced materials that prioritize durability, energy efficiency, and comfort. Key components include Kingspan Insulated Panels for superior insulation, photovoltaic systems for renewable energy generation, and slimline tanks for efficient rainwater management. The structural elements are lightweight and designed for easy transport and assembly, offering flexibility in adapting to various rooftop configurations. Through the incorporation of these features, the project significantly minimizes carbon footprints and promotes sustainable living practices, reinforcing its commitment to community integration and environmental resilience.

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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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