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Solar-Powered Micro Residence Featuring Locally Sourced Pine and Efficient Insulation Solutions

Author:
Usama Ishtiaq Ishtiaq Ali Khan
Solar-Powered Micro Residence Featuring Locally Sourced Pine and Efficient Insulation Solutions

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced pine and equipped with a Tesla Solar Roof, this compact residence integrates advanced thermal insulation and natural light maximization, providing an efficient living and research space for a zoologist couple in Kumrat Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced pine, enhancing sustainability.
02
Incorporates a Tesla Solar Roof for autonomous energy generation.
03
Features an innovative bent A-frame design for optimal space use.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and insulation.
05
Strategically placed large windows maximize natural light and views.

**Overview and Context**
The Zolo House is a sustainable residential design located in Kumrat Valley, Pakistan, intended for a zoologist couple. This dwelling, with a compact footprint of 25 square meters, seeks to balance efficient, functional living with environmental sensitivity. Its design takes cues from the region's natural landscape, reinforcing a commitment to ecological principles and modern micro-housing solutions.

**Materials and Sustainable Features**
The construction utilizes locally sourced materials such as pine wood and stone, ensuring both aesthetic integration with the site and a reduction in transportation-related emissions. The residence incorporates a Tesla Solar Roof, which improves energy efficiency and aids in achieving self-sufficiency. Additionally, Kingspan Lumera Ventilators and QuadCore Insulated Roof Panels enhance thermal insulation while managing ventilation needs, contributing to the home’s overall comfort and performance.

**Spatial Planning and Interior Design**
The interior layout of the Zolo House is thoughtfully designed to maximize utility within a limited space. Essential areas such as a kitchen, bathroom, and workspace are included while ensuring a cohesive flow between them. Large windows and glass doors facilitate natural light penetration, creating a sense of openness that belies the home’s small size. Multifunctional elements, such as a lofted bed and integrated storage solutions, further optimize the living experience, aligning with the residents' needs and prioritizing comfort.

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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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