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Recycled Plastics and Natural Ventilation Define a Flexible Coastal Microhome

Author:
Alireza Eshtehardiha
Recycled Plastics and Natural Ventilation Define a Flexible Coastal Microhome

Project in-detail

Using recycled plastics and a canvas roofing system for natural ventilation, this coastal microhome offers a flexible living space that adapts to the needs of its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled plastics as a primary construction material.
02
Incorporates a canvas roof to enhance natural ventilation.
03
Features a modular design for versatile living configurations.
04
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainability.
05
Employs galvanized steel for durability in plumbing systems.

**Overview**

The Narrator Microhome is a residential design project situated in a coastal environment, emphasizing personalization, sustainability, and efficient resource management. By enabling residents to mold their living spaces through modularity and adaptive design, the project aims to redefine conventional housing concepts. Each module serves a specific function, allowing inhabitants to adjust their surroundings according to their evolving needs.

**Modular Strategy**

The design capitalizes on modularity, with each individual module functioning as an independent unit. These modules can be reconfigured for diverse uses, including living spaces, sleeping quarters, kitchens, and home offices. The principles of Pascal's Law guide the lightweight structure, promoting effective air circulation and optimizing views while maximizing utility for various activities. This adaptability aligns with the notion that a home functions as a mechanism to support daily life.

**Sustainable Material Selection**

The selection of materials in the Narrator Microhome reflects a focus on environmental responsibility and functionality. Recycled plastics are extensively used in both the construction of modules and furnishings, minimizing ecological impact. The roofing system incorporates canvas, strategically designed to enhance airflow and support natural cooling. Galvanized steel pipe is employed for durability in rainwater collection and plumbing systems, while modular water tanks from Kingspan facilitate efficient rainwater management. This thoughtful integration of materials contributes to the home’s overall sustainability and cost-effectiveness.

The design also features multiple unique elements, such as modular boxes that can transform into various functional spaces and an air circulation system that supports natural ventilation, enhancing occupant comfort while reducing reliance on artificial cooling. The effective integration of these systems ensures a harmonious balance between efficiency, user experience, and environmental stewardship.

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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
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