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Reflective Glass and Reinforced Concrete Unite in a Compact Residential Habitat

Author:
Violetta Jurkina
Reflective Glass and Reinforced Concrete Unite in a Compact Residential Habitat

Project in-detail

Utilizing one-way mirror glass and a framework of reinforced concrete, this compact residence maximizes natural light while promoting a seamless connection to its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes one-way mirror glass for enhanced privacy and natural light.
02
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system to promote sustainability.
03
Features a dual-cube design, maximizing spatial efficiency.
04
Employs granite slabs for pathways, blending architecture with landscape.
05
Incorporates solar panels for renewable energy use.

### Overview

The Microhome project emphasizes sustainable living within a compact residential design, aimed at enhancing the relationship between individuals and their natural environment. Located in a rural setting, particularly in regions of Switzerland characterized by dense forests and tranquil waters, this design arose from a competition organized by Kingspan. It seeks to create a functional living space that balances human interaction with ecological considerations.

### Spatial Strategy

The interior layout supports multifunctional use while maintaining comfort and openness. Key areas include a 12.2 m² living/kitchen space that serves as the central hub for cooking and socializing, a compact bathroom occupying 2.1 m², and an entryway that accommodates storage needs without sacrificing spaciousness. The design employs a triangular zoning approach, which delineates distinct functional areas while ensuring connectivity among them.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The structural framework utilizes reinforced concrete for durability, while the outer cube combines metal framing with one-way mirror glass to enhance privacy and create a visual connection with the landscape. Significantly, natural materials such as granite slabs form the surrounding pathways, reinforcing a connection with the environment. The use of Klearsky™ skylights maximizes natural light, contributing to a sense of openness. Additionally, the microhome incorporates sustainability features such as solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems alongside composting solutions, promoting environmentally responsible living practices. This careful selection of materials and systems aligns with the project's intent to minimize ecological impact.

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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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