Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Protruding Volumes and Versatile Spaces in Sustainable Wood Housing

Authors:
Artem Tokunov, Anna Kurtvaapova
Protruding Volumes and Versatile Spaces in Sustainable Wood Housing

Project in-detail

With its unique protruding volumes and efficient assembly of modular wood units, the design provides adaptable and affordable housing solutions that meet contemporary urban needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units are prefabricated off-site for efficient construction.
02
Protruding volumes enhance both aesthetics and usable space.
03
A central technical area supports essential services and utilities.
04
Customizable facade options allow for individual expression.
05
Designed to adapt to various urban contexts and community needs.

The modular home project in Toronto aims to solve the city's pressing housing problem by providing affordable and quality living spaces. By combining mobility with the comfort typically associated with traditional homes, the design blends elements of rural and urban living. The structure features a spatial frame, promoting efficient assembly and integration within the city. This approach allows for both practicality and an appealing look.

Design Concept

Factory readiness is central to the design. Each floor consists of four modular blocks that are built off-site and then brought together at the construction site. This method speeds up the building process, reducing the time it takes to deliver new housing. Such efficiency is essential in responding to the growing need for affordable homes in urban areas. The modular design also allows for easy adjustments to meet different requirements.

Visual and Functional Elements

The project is characterized by protruding volumes that create an interesting silhouette. These elements offer a sculptural quality, helping the building stand out within its setting. The varying textures used on the facade contribute to visual richness while allowing for personalization through different design choices. Such features not only engage the viewers but also enhance the overall character of the building.

Structural Organization

Each module operates as a self-contained unit, yet together they create a unified living space. A central technical area is strategically located to house essential engineering systems, ensuring the smooth operation of utilities and services. This attention to functionality shows a thoughtful connection between practical needs and architectural design, making sure that each module serves its purpose effectively.

Materials

The design incorporates wood, metal, and concrete to form the structure. These materials support the building's strength while also adding to its aesthetic. The choice of materials reflects current trends that emphasize sustainability and longevity in construction. This careful selection enhances the overall environment of the modular home.

The thoughtful combination of materials and design elements results in a functional living space that caters to the needs of urban residents. Each module invites a sense of individuality while contributing to a larger community feel.

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

`
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

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