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Scissor Truss Roof and Natural Ventilation in Modular Living

Authors:
Jordanna Ebanks, Jaya Kader, Angela Johnson
Scissor Truss Roof and Natural Ventilation in Modular Living

Project in-detail

With a scissor truss roof that maximizes natural ventilation, the modular structure redefines flexible living while integrating sustainable features such as rainwater harvesting and photovoltaic systems.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for easy expansion with additional modules.
02
Scissor truss roof system enhances structural stability and ventilation.
03
Rainwater harvesting integrated with a UV filtration system for sustainability.
04
Flexible interior layout accommodates various user needs and preferences.
05
Local material options adapt to different climates and cultural contexts.

Regen House represents an ecological approach to modular home design, focusing on simplicity and adaptability. Located in varied geographical settings, the project caters to the modern need for residential structures that integrate with their surroundings while providing functional living spaces. It encourages flexibility and customization, allowing residents to shape their homes according to personal requirements.

Structural Framework

The framework of Regen House uses standard dimensional wood, joined together to create structural integrity similar to heavy timber frame construction. Each column consists of four 4x4 posts that rest on concrete piers, forming a solid foundation for the structure. Running parallel to the building, 4x12 beams at each floor level support the overall load and maintain stability. A 4x10 beam is installed perpendicularly above the lower beam, alongside 2x10 floor joists. This configuration results in a strong and reliable structural system.

Roof Design and Ventilation

An important feature of Regen House is its roof structure, which employs a scissor truss system made from 2x10 and 2x8 members. This design not only shapes the building's profile but also enhances its thermal performance. An open screen system facilitates natural ventilation, allowing air to flow freely and reduce the need for mechanical cooling. The roof provides shading, promoting a comfortable indoor environment while ensuring efficient air circulation.

Adaptability and Sustainability

Regen House is designed for adaptability, allowing for the addition of modules to expand the living space. The base model can shift from a one-bedroom, one-bath layout to a two-bedroom, two-bath configuration by integrating additional modules. Sustainable features, such as rainwater harvesting systems and photovoltaic panels, support efficient resource use and energy independence. Rainwater can be collected and treated using a UV filtration system, further enhancing the project's commitment to sustainability.

Local Context Integration

The design of Regen House integrates well with its local context, maintaining a consistent core structure while allowing for variations in finishes based on geographic location. For homes in Southeast Asia, this could include bamboo walls and thatched roofs that are suited to the climate. In contrast, colder regions like Oregon would benefit from thicker insulation and robust siding to protect against harsh winter weather. This focus on local materials fosters a strong connection between the structure and its environment.

The thoughtful integration of features and structural elements illustrates a comprehensive approach to modern living spaces. Regen House stands as a model of how architecture can respond to both individual needs and environmental challenges, creating a balanced and practical habitat.

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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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