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Revolving Core Housing with Natural Wood Panels and Sustainable Water Collection

Author:
Yuyi Shen
Revolving Core Housing with Natural Wood Panels and Sustainable Water Collection

Project in-detail

Utilizing a revolving core structure and natural wood panels, this microhome integrates innovative rainwater collection and acoustic solutions to create a flexible living space that fosters community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Revolving core allows adaptable space configuration for various resident activities.
02
Rainwater collection system directs water into a compact tank for efficient resource management.
03
Natural wood panels and charred shingles emphasize sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Skylights optimize natural light entry, reducing reliance on artificial lighting.
05
Elevated walkway design enhances community interaction while preserving personal privacy.

# Architectural Design Project Report: "Turning Out"

## General Overview

Located in response to the pressing housing shortage in the United States, "Turning Out" addresses the challenges posed by traditional single-family zoning laws by redefining the interpretation of affordable housing. This project prioritizes affordability not only in economic terms but also as a framework for social interaction, community engagement, and versatile living environments. Through innovative design strategies, the project transforms underutilized spaces—such as backyards—into vibrant areas that foster a sense of belonging and shared experiences among residents.

## Spatial Strategy

The architectural layout of "Turning Out" reimagines conventional residential arrangements by introducing microhome structures aligned along a central elevated walkway. This design encourages interaction among neighbors while maintaining the privacy of individual units. Central to this concept is the "Revolving Core," a flexible circular space that allows residents to easily reconfigure their living environments according to their needs. The off-centered positioning of the core facilitates a dynamic interplay between private and communal areas, enhancing both functionality and social connectivity.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The project employs a carefully selected palette of materials that emphasize both aesthetic qualities and sustainability. The use of Dri Design Cassettes introduces varied textures and visual interest, while Quadrocore K10000 LEC roof panels provide excellent insulation and a reduced carbon footprint. Acoustic treatments, such as TROLIDKET V-Line ceiling tiles, enhance comfort within the adaptable spaces.

Sustainable strategies are integral to the design, featuring rainwater management systems, strategically placed skylights for natural lighting, and solar panels that promote energy self-sufficiency. Together, these elements reflect a commitment to ecological responsibility while creating a welcoming atmosphere that balances comfort with functionality.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
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MICROHOME
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