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Spiral Structure Crafted from Upcycled Materials and Engineered Timber Emphasizing Community Connectivity

Authors:
Daniel Burston, Emily Young, Toby Oxborrow
Spiral Structure Crafted from Upcycled Materials and Engineered Timber Emphasizing Community Connectivity

Project in-detail

The spiral wall, constructed from engineered timber and upcycled materials, creates a flexible communal space designed to enhance social interaction and connectivity among residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates a central spiral wall that directs movement and enhances spatial connectivity.
02
Constructed using locally sourced earthen blocks, the building maximizes thermal efficiency.
03
Upcycled PVC shingles provide an innovative roofing solution that reduces waste.
04
Natural light is optimized through a strategically designed central light well.
05
Cork tiles are used for internal cladding, adding insulation while maintaining sustainability.

The Spirala Community Home project exemplifies a design framework that integrates architectural functionality with sustainability principles. Situated in a context-sensitive location, this community-oriented development fosters social interaction while prioritizing ecological responsibility.

The architectural design features a distinctive spiral wall that acts as the primary structural and spatial organizing element. This feature not only defines circulation pathways but also creates a sense of continuity throughout the building. The design facilitates a range of communal functions, including gathering spaces, workshops, and kitchens. Careful attention to layout enhances accessibility and social connectivity among occupants, making it an effective model for communal living.

Unique Structural Design

The architectural approach focuses on a whole systems strategy that connects human needs with environmental considerations. The spiral wall draws inspiration from natural forms, promoting both aesthetic and practical benefits. This design encourages users to engage with their environment, creating a dynamic space that evolves with occupancy patterns. The layout showcases flexibility, accommodating various events and activities without compromising the spatial integrity of the community.

Incorporating sustainable materials is another hallmark of the project. The use of engineered timber, earthen blocks, and upcycled materials, such as PVC rod shingles and cork tiles, exemplifies a commitment to resource efficiency and circular economy practices. Local sourcing of materials reduces transportation impacts, further enhancing the project’s sustainability profile. These choices reflect a conscientious design methodology that aligns with modern ecological standards while ensuring durability and functionality.

Functional and Spatial Organization

The internal organization of the Spirala Community Home emphasizes natural light and ventilation, significantly elevating the occupant experience. The inclusion of features like a light well allows sunlight to permeate the central areas, enhancing the atmosphere within the communal spaces. The efficient layout promotes interaction among users, encouraging collaboration and community spirit.

Architectural efficiency extends to energy performance, with design elements that comply with Passive House standards. The building incorporates natural ventilation strategies, thermal mass for temperature regulation, and renewable energy solutions, positioning it as a leader in sustainable architecture.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, and design ideas that underpin this project, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation. Detailed insights into the unique architectural elements and their implementation provide valuable context for understanding the approaches employed in the Spirala Community Home.

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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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