Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Rotating Modules Crafted from Sustainable Timber with Light-Filled Interiors for Urban Living

Authors:
Tairan Fang, Linqing Lao, Ziqi Wang
Rotating Modules Crafted from Sustainable Timber with Light-Filled Interiors for Urban Living

Project in-detail

A rotating cylindrical module of sustainable timber enables customizable living spaces within a compact urban footprint, promoting adaptability and efficiency for contemporary residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rotating cylindrical module allows for personalized spatial configurations throughout the day.
02
Integration of charred wooden shingles enhances durability and offers a unique aesthetic profile.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural efficiency while promoting sustainability.
04
Natural light is maximized through strategically placed large windows improving resident well-being.
05
Compact footprint supports flexible urban living solutions in densely populated areas.

### Overview

Located in Guangzhou, China, the Rotating Tent project addresses the challenges of increasing population density and the resulting demand for affordable housing. This architectural solution is designed to optimize living conditions within compact urban environments, combining functionality with a focus on community-oriented living. The dual-module system integrates both fixed and rotating components that allow for adaptability in day-to-day living arrangements.

### Spatial Configuration and Flexibility

The project features a fixed cubic module that houses essential amenities, including a bathroom and storage, and a rotating cylindrical module designed for flexible use. The rotating module can be reconfigured to function as living, working, cooking, or sleeping areas, supporting diverse lifestyle needs. This intentional design fosters interaction among spaces, facilitating both communal engagement and private retreat within the confines of urban life.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A deliberate choice of materials reinforces the project’s sustainability and durability objectives. Structural framing utilizes wood for its aesthetic appeal and acoustic properties, while insulation panels enhance energy efficiency by mitigating heat loss. Large glass panes optimize natural light and connect indoor spaces with the urban landscape, whereas steel supports the structural integrity of the rotating aspect. This combination of materials not only meets functional requirements but also minimizes ecological impact, reflecting a commitment to responsible urban development.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy