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Portland Concrete Chimney in a Compact Living Space

Author:
Arianna Tavazzi
Portland Concrete Chimney in a Compact Living Space

Project in-detail

A Portland concrete chimney integrates with a spiral staircase in a compact living space designed for efficient urban dwelling, maximizing comfort and functionality in a limited footprint.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique sinuous design of the kitchen countertop enhances spatial flow.
02
Spiral staircase doubles as structural support for the heating chimney.
03
L-shaped couch integrated with a multi-use foldable table for flexibility.
04
Strategically placed windows capture natural light and outside views.
05
Vertical storage solutions maximize efficiency in limited space.

MICROHOME 2019 is a residential design that focuses on solving the issues of living in a small space. Set in an urban environment, it aims to combine comfort and practicality. The design emphasizes the need for areas that serve multiple purposes, allowing inhabitants to maximize their experience in limited square footage.

Spatial Organization

The layout features two levels where the ground floor is primarily for living activities. When entering, there is a kitchen equipped with a refrigerator, dishwasher, electrical burners, and a microwave. The kitchen countertop follows a smooth, curving design that adds to the welcoming feel of the space, making it more inviting for day-to-day use.



Multi-Functional Elements

At the heart of the ground floor is an L-shaped couch, positioned near a small foldable table. This setup allows the table to be used for different purposes, such as meals or work. Electric sockets are conveniently placed nearby, fitting the needs of modern life. Smart storage solutions are also present, including spaces for clothing, umbrellas, and shoes, ensuring that the home stays organized and efficient.



Vertical Connectivity

A spiral staircase leads to the first floor, measuring one meter in diameter. This staircase not only allows movement between levels but also supports the chimney. Built from Portland concrete, the chimney acts as the main heating source for the home, showing a focus on functionality and warmth.



Upper Floor Features

The second level introduces a foldable bed, designed to save space when not in use. Additional storage can be found beneath the bed, as well as shelves mounted on higher walls, making use of vertical space. The design includes strategically placed windows on the east and west sides, allowing natural light to fill the rooms and providing views of the outside.



A notable detail is the combination of the chimney base and the staircase, which not only supports the structure but also contributes to the overall design. This thoughtful integration reflects a commitment to both form and function in a compact setting.

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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

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competition now

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