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Reflective Glass Facades and Photovoltaic Energy Systems in a Sustainable Urban Microhome

Reflective Glass Facades and Photovoltaic Energy Systems in a Sustainable Urban Microhome
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Utilizing reflective glass facades and a photovoltaic energy system, this sustainable urban microhome incorporates multifunctional spaces and a central courtyard to foster community engagement while addressing pressing housing needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes two-way glass to enhance natural light while providing visual connectivity with the surroundings.
02
Incorporates a central courtyard to foster community interaction and green space within an urban layout.
03
Features a vegetable patch, promoting local food production and encouraging sustainable practices among residents.
04
Employs a draw-well tap system for efficient waste management and water reclamation.
05
Constructed with Kingspan quadcore roof panels to improve energy efficiency and insulation performance.

**Overview**

Located in Kyiv, Ukraine, the Microhome Kingspan - The Green Capsule addresses the pressing housing crisis intensified by recent conflicts. The design concept aims to establish a resilient and self-sufficient living environment that fosters community recovery and engagement. By integrating modern architectural principles with local context, the project aspires to enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants through adaptable living solutions.

**Spatial Strategy and User Experience**

The layout emphasizes efficient use of space through multifunctional design elements. Each area is meticulously crafted to ensure maximum versatility, catering to the dynamic needs of urban residents. Features such as a convertible Murphy bed and a compact kitchen module facilitate functionality without compromising comfort. The design fosters community interaction, particularly within shared spaces, such as the central courtyard and outdoor garden, which serve as venues for social activities and sustainable food practices.

**Material Selection and Eco-Friendly Design**

A carefully curated palette of materials underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and structural integrity. The primary metal framework enables fast assembly, while the use of two-way glass enhances natural light and visual connectivity to the environment. Eco-efficient elements, including photovoltaic panels and a Quadcore LEC roof, contribute to energy self-sufficiency and improved insulation. Additionally, the incorporation of a vegetable patch promotes biophilic principles and local biodiversity, reinforcing the project’s dedication to creating a harmonious living space that supports both individual well-being and community interaction.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025

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