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Polyurethane Foam Dome With Natural Light and Acoustic Comfort

Author:
Taras Shapulin
Polyurethane Foam Dome With Natural Light and Acoustic Comfort

Project in-detail

Constructed with rigid polyurethane foam, this dome offers a uniquely energy-efficient living space that maximizes natural light while ensuring acoustic comfort, ideal for modern residential needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dome shape reduces heating and cooling energy costs.
02
Interior design ensures optimal natural light distribution.
03
Absence of load-bearing walls allows for flexible space planning.
04
Constructed using rigid closed-cell polyurethane foam for durability.
05
Enhanced acoustic properties minimize noise disturbance indoors.

The design presents a dome structure that focuses on efficiency and adaptability within a modern residential setting. Located in a thoughtfully chosen environment, the project aims to offer a sustainable housing solution that meets contemporary living demands. The design embraces energy conservation and flexible space, using the unique features of the dome shape to enhance the experience of its occupants.

Energy Efficiency

The dome shape is effective at reducing heat loss, which lowers the costs of heating and cooling. This energy efficiency supports a sustainable way of living, making the residence an environmentally friendly option. The absence of standard load-bearing walls permits an open layout, allowing for various spatial arrangements that can be adapted to individual needs.

Natural Light and Acoustics

Inside the dome, natural light plays an essential role. The structure is designed to maximize daylight, creating a bright and inviting environment. In addition to light, the dome’s design offers improved sound insulation. Its resistance to vibrations helps to create quiet living spaces, contributing to a more relaxed atmosphere for residents.

Functional Layout

The layout is carefully organized to enhance usability. The kitchen and dining areas are integrated to promote both aesthetic appeal and practicality, encouraging social gatherings. Workspaces have been designed with modern ergonomic standards in mind, providing enough shelving and drawer space to support everyday tasks. Areas for relaxation are also thoughtfully designed, offering comfort and a pleasant retreat from daily activities.

Material Choices

Rigid closed-cell polyurethane foam is the main material used in the construction of the dome. This choice emphasizes durability and sustainability, with a life expectancy that exceeds 50 years. The foam is environmentally friendly and suitable for various applications, including use in child-care facilities. Additionally, its thermal insulating properties enhance the overall energy efficiency of the structure.

The design effectively balances function and comfort, resulting in a residence that is both practical and visually pleasing. Thoughtful attention to detail in each space creates an environment that meets the needs of its inhabitants while promoting a sense of well-being.

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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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