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Resilient Shelter Crafted from Durable Fiberglass and Sustainable Materials

Author:
Nabil Koodaruth
Resilient Shelter Crafted from Durable Fiberglass and Sustainable Materials

Project in-detail

Crafted from resilient fiberglass and incorporating a rainwater collection system, the microhome provides a functional and sustainable living space designed specifically for cyclone-prone regions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from fiberglass, enhancing durability against harsh weather conditions.
02
Modular design allows flexible configurations to adapt to various family sizes.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable resource management.
04
Features an interior courtyard to maximize natural light and ventilation.
05
Utilizes reused construction debris, promoting eco-friendly building practices.

### Project Overview

The Tenrec microhome, designed for regions vulnerable to extreme weather, such as Madagascar and tropical areas in Africa, occupies a compact 25 square meters. The design caters to small groups, including individuals, couples, and elderly occupants, with the intent of providing a functional living space that responds to environmental challenges while enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

### Spatial Strategy and Functionality

The modular structure of the Tenrec microhome allows for flexible configurations, making it adaptable to various family sizes and dynamic living situations. Key design features include an interior courtyard that fosters transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, enhancing residents' connection to nature. The living space incorporates minimalist furnishings that maximize efficiency while ensuring comfort. Additionally, an integrated rainwater collection system underscores the project’s emphasis on resource efficiency, providing a reliable water supply for essential needs.

### Materials and Resilience

A focus on sustainability and resilience is evident in the materials used throughout the microhome. Fiberglass provides durability against environmental factors, while mortise and tenon joints reinforce structural integrity. The use of reused construction debris aligns with sustainable building practices, reducing waste and environmental impact. Key aspects such as the Inova window and Estra glazed louvers facilitate natural ventilation and light, contributing to a healthy living environment. The design also prioritizes safety during potential disasters, ensuring continued access to vital utilities amid extreme weather conditions, thereby protecting occupants during cyclonic events and floods.

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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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