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Prefabricated Microhome Featuring Kingspan Facade and Biophilic Design for Natural Living

Author:
Shirley Levy
Prefabricated Microhome Featuring Kingspan Facade and Biophilic Design for Natural Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating a Kingspan facade and laminated plywood, this prefabricated microhome offers a sustainable living solution that seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a Kingspan façade for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Employs laminated plywood for structural integrity while minimizing weight.
03
Incorporates solar panels for self-sufficiency in energy.
04
Features a bent A-frame design optimizing space and natural light.
05
Designed for rapid assembly through prefabricated components.

## Overview

The Kita microhome is situated near a riverbank, integrated into a landscape that promotes a connection with nature. This design emphasizes minimalism and sustainability, addressing contemporary residential needs while allowing occupants to engage with their environment. The A-frame structure serves as both a dwelling and a retreat, accommodating diverse weather conditions while encouraging outdoor exploration.

## Spatial Efficiency and User Interaction

The layout of the microhome is intentionally designed for spatial efficiency, comprising a living area and a private space that fosters interaction with both indoor and outdoor environments. The living area, approximately 6.9 m², includes essential amenities such as a kitchen table and storage solutions, while the private section features flexible arrangements for a bedroom and bathroom. An adjacent porch extends the living area, reinforcing the transition between inside and outside, thereby enhancing the occupant's experience in natural surroundings.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Key materials selected for the construction reflect a commitment to sustainability and ease of assembly. The Kingspan Dri-design facade system provides a robust and low-maintenance exterior, while QuadCore carrier panels optimize thermal efficiency. Laminated plywood is employed for durability, and polycarbonate panels illuminate the interior while maintaining insulation. The integration of solar panels promotes self-sustainability, and self-draining gutters enhance rainwater management. This careful material selection not only supports environmental objectives but also contributes to the maintenance of a lightweight, efficient structure throughout various seasons.

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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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