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

Authors:
Federico Joaquin Palavecino, Rodrigo Perea
Reflective Glass Facades and Photovoltaic Energy Systems in a Sustainable Urban Microhome

Project in-detail

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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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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