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Solar-Focusing Circular Home Featuring Dri-Design Cassette Panels for Enhanced Sustainability

Authors:
Stefania Ivanova Atova, Aleksandar Danielov Sarov, Teodor Desislavov Angelov
Solar-Focusing Circular Home Featuring Dri-Design Cassette Panels for Enhanced Sustainability

Project in-detail

A solar-focusing circular design utilizing Dri-Design cassette panels promotes energy efficiency and resilience, offering a sustainable living solution in tropical savanna climates.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated on columns to minimize flood risk and facilitate ventilation.
02
Rotatable roof design maximizes solar energy capture throughout the day.
03
Dri-Design cassette panels streamline construction and enhance thermal efficiency.
04
Circular layout optimizes space utilization and promotes natural light distribution.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting system supports water independence in dry conditions.
The "1.5°C" sustainable modular house project addresses the urgent issue of climate change within the context of tropical savanna environments. This design serves as a resilient living space that integrates advanced technologies with sustainable practices. The modular structure is specifically engineered to provide safe and comfortable accommodation while responding to the challenges of extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall and rising temperatures.

The project encompasses a circular footprint, optimized for natural light distribution and adaptability in usage. The design includes distinct functional areas: a living/work space, sleeping quarters, a compact kitchen, and essential bathroom facilities. This layout prioritizes flexibility, allowing inhabitants to modify the space according to their needs.

Materiality is a central concern in the architectural approach, emphasizing durability and environmental sustainability. The key materials used in the construction are plaster with finishing, structural insulation panels, and the Dri-Design cassette system. These selections enhance the building's thermal efficiency and streamline the assembly process. Elevated on columns, the structure minimizes flood risk, reinforcing its resilience.

Innovative Design Approaches

The project sets itself apart through several unique design features. One significant element is the rotatable roof mechanism, designed to maximize solar energy collection by adjusting to the sun’s trajectory. This flexibility enhances energy efficiency, providing a reliable off-grid solution for its inhabitants.

The modularity of the house enables easy transportation and quick assembly, making it suitable for various living scenarios, from temporary shelters to permanent residences. Additionally, multifunctional furniture solutions allow for effective use of space, an essential feature in compact living environments.

Sustainability measures are integrated throughout the design. The project includes a rainwater harvesting system and a greywater recycling feature, crucial for reducing dependency on local water sources. Furthermore, a compostable toilet system minimizes waste, aligning with the overall goal of low environmental impact.

It is beneficial for interested readers to explore the architectural plans and sections to understand the comprehensive design strategies applied in this project. Such an examination will provide deeper insights into the architectural ideas and innovations that define the "1.5°C" modular house. By reviewing these elements, one can fully appreciate how this design addresses sustainable living amid the realities of climate change.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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