Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Photovoltaic Roofs and Kingspan Panels in a Compact Off-Grid Dwelling

Author:
Isabella Iacinschi
Photovoltaic Roofs and Kingspan Panels in a Compact Off-Grid Dwelling

Project in-detail

Utilizing photovoltaic roofs and Kingspan panels, the compact dwelling offers a flexible, off-grid living solution tailored for modern urban professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes photovoltaic tiles for energy self-sufficiency.
02
Incorporates modular components for flexible space usage.
03
Features Kingspan panels for enhanced insulation and weather resistance.
04
Includes a multifunctional living area adaptable to various needs.
05
Designed for efficient off-grid living with integrated utility systems.

## Overview
The Pick n Mix architectural project is situated within an urban context tailored for young professionals. It represents a novel approach to compact living characterized by adaptability and user customization. Designed as an off-grid dwelling, the project prioritizes the creation of a flexible living environment that can be continuously modified to meet the varying needs of its inhabitants.

### Spatial Organization
The dwelling encompasses a total area of 25 square meters, emphasizing multifunctional spaces to enhance comfort and usability while optimizing the efficient use of limited square footage. Key design elements include a living area that doubles as a study, a small terrace that connects the interior to the outdoors, and a bedroom component featuring a dedicated reading nook. The integrated kitchen and dining area allow for seamless meal preparation and dining experiences, while the bathroom offers separated facilities to maximize privacy. Moreover, critical back-of-house spaces are incorporated to support off-grid living, housing essential utilities such as a generator and storage solutions. The interior layout is intentionally adaptable, accommodating different living scenarios and promoting personalized space management.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Sustainable practices are integral to the project's material selection and construction methods. Photovoltaic roof tiles enhance the dwelling's energy self-sufficiency, while Kingspan panels provide robust weather resistance. Frosted glazing is used for windows to maintain privacy while permitting ample natural light. Water filtration units are installed to ensure responsible water usage. Additionally, the design includes effective floor systems for managing essential utilities, complemented by underground septic systems for waste disposal. This combination of materials and off-grid technology highlights a commitment to ecological sustainability, further underscoring the project's aim to foster an efficient and resilient living environment tailored to contemporary urban lifestyles.

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

`

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