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Spiral Structure Enhanced by Photovoltaic Panels and Natural Wood Elements

Spiral Structure Enhanced by Photovoltaic Panels and Natural Wood Elements
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A spiral staircase integrates with photovoltaic panels and natural wood accents to create an adaptable living environment that maximizes sustainable practices and occupant comfort.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spiral staircase serves as a central architectural feature connecting multiple levels.
02
Photovoltaic panels are seamlessly integrated into the building's design for energy efficiency.
03
The use of cross-laminated timber provides structural stability with reduced environmental impact.
04
Natural wood accents complement charred shingles, enhancing aesthetic and durability.
05
The design allows for modular reconfiguration based on inhabitants' changing needs.

### Concept Overview

Located within a carefully considered environment, this architectural initiative represents an exploration of the dualities of simplicity and complexity, termed "Simplexity." The design intends to establish a living space that balances aesthetic appeal with functionality, adapting to technological advancements and the diverse requirements of its residents. Sustainability is ingrained in the design philosophy, emphasizing the harmonious relationship between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration and Materiality

**Structural Composition:**
The residence features a modular design that offers flexibility in spatial arrangements. An open-plan layout across multiple levels promotes natural light and air circulation, while large glazing elements enhance the connection to the outdoor landscape, characterized by verdant palm trees. The integration of a sculptural spiral staircase serves as a focal point, fostering vertical circulation and symbolizing a commitment to sustainable living.

**Materials:**
The selection of materials is pivotal to the project's sustainable objectives. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity while allowing design flexibility. Extensive use of glass facilitates natural lighting and external visibility, whereas wood accents, found in the staircase and flooring, contribute warmth to the interiors. Photovoltaic panels are integrated into window designs for energy capture, supporting self-sufficiency, and metals are utilized for structural framing and decorative components, enhancing durability.

### Technological Integration and Outdoor Spaces

**Adaptability and Automation:**
The dwelling is equipped with intelligent systems designed to accommodate evolving resident needs. Dynamic architectural cells enable reconfiguration in response to changing lifestyles, minimizing the need for major renovations. Smart home technologies optimize energy efficiency by adjusting environmental conditions based on real-time data.

**Garden and Surrounding Areas:**
The thoughtfully designed garden utilizes local flora to bolster biodiversity while creating tranquil outdoor spaces for recreation and social interaction. This approach aligns with cultural influences and encourages sustainable practices, reinforcing the project’s commitment to environmental stewardship.

In summary, this initiative exemplifies a modern architectural response that effectively integrates technology, sustainable materials, and thoughtful spatial design to create a adaptable and inviting living environment.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity

Recurring architecture competitions

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
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Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 October 2025
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Take a step and make a statement!

Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 15 October 2025
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Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 October 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025
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Final registration deadline 13 November 2025
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Prize Monetary award
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Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
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Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #7 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
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