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Portable Living Solution Featuring KingSpan Panels and Biophilic Design Principles

Authors:
Hangeldi Oshanov, Kamiljan Muradov
Portable Living Solution Featuring KingSpan Panels and Biophilic Design Principles

Project in-detail

Constructed from KingSpan panels and designed for adaptability, this compact dwelling integrates biophilic elements to promote a sustainable living environment for two occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with KingSpan Sandwich Panels for superior insulation and efficiency.
02
Features a portable design that allows for easy transportation and relocation.
03
Incorporates a bicycle mechanism to generate electricity from user activity.
04
Utilizes PentaClad™ panels for daylighting while ensuring durability and weather resistance.
05
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.

### Overview

The "MICRO" project is an exploration of micro-living, designed to facilitate sharing, healing, and productivity within a compact spatial framework. Located in an environment that requires resource-efficient solutions, the design reconsiders traditional living arrangements, proposing a model that prioritizes functionality and sustainability while optimizing a limited area of 24.98 square meters. The approach emphasizes shared residential experiences, catering to two occupants through an innovative layout that balances communal interaction with personal privacy.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

This micro-home employs a functional diagram that differentiates areas for essential activities, living, communal sharing, personal healing, and productive endeavors. Each designated space serves distinct purposes, yet allows for fluid transitions between them. Notable features include adjustable smart furniture that accommodates various uses, such as sleeping, dining, and storage, as well as an efficient water circulation system designed to enhance comfort and hygiene. The integration of cycling units enables residents to convert physical activity into electricity, promoting self-sufficiency.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A carefully curated selection of materials underpins the project, optimizing both functionality and environmental responsibility. Noteworthy components include the KingSpan Solatube 160 ISn for natural lighting and energy efficiency, various KingSpan sandwich panels for insulation, and polycarbonate cladding to facilitate daylighting while ensuring durability. The inclusion of a rainwater harvesting system, a waste recycling mechanism, and photovoltaic solar panels emphasizes a commitment to sustainability. The structural framework utilizes a steel core for resilience, while natural pine wood adds an aesthetic element to the interior.

Through these design considerations, the "MICRO" project illustrates a comprehensive approach to sustainable living, positioning itself as a viable model for future architectural endeavors in resource-constrained settings.

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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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