Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Staggered Cubical Form With Transparent Roofing Integrating Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Timber Finishes

Staggered Cubical Form With Transparent Roofing Integrating Charred Wooden Shingles and Natural Timber Finishes

Project in-detail

Characterized by its staggered cubical configuration and integrated transparent roofing, the residence utilizes charred wooden shingles and natural timber elements to create a sustainable living environment that fosters a strong connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Characterized by a staggered cubical form that enhances spatial dynamics.
02
Incorporates transparent roofing to maximize natural light and outdoor views.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Features a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the design.
05
Includes a mezzanine for privacy, creating distinct living zones.

### Project Overview
"The Home of Happiness" is located in a harmonious natural setting designed to function as both a residence and a creative sanctuary. The architectural intent focuses on providing distinct yet interconnected areas for living, working, and entertaining, facilitating a balanced lifestyle that encourages interaction and adaptability among its inhabitants. By dividing the structure into three primary zones, the design promotes varied experiences while offering flexibility to meet the diverse needs of modern living.

### Spatial Organization
The layout employs a cubical form that serves as the structural basis for the design. Each of the three main spaces—living, working, and entertaining—is intricately linked, enabling fluid movement and interaction. The staggered arrangement of these blocks adds visual interest and variety in ceiling heights and sight lines, enhancing both ergonomic functionality and aesthetic appeal. This thoughtful organization fosters a unique dynamic relationship between the interior spaces and their occupants.

### Material Choices and Sustainability
Material selection reflects contemporary practices with a focus on sustainability and environmental harmony. The primary use of wood frames (50 mm x 200 mm) not only provides structural stability but also contributes to excellent insulation and an inviting aesthetic. Transparent roofing materials allow natural light to penetrate deeper into the home while offering unobstructed views of the sky. Windows and sliding glass doors significantly enhance transparency, minimizing barriers between interior and exterior spaces and promoting natural ventilation. The inclusion of a rainwater harvesting system exemplifies the project’s commitment to eco-friendly practices, aligning functional aspects with responsible design principles.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy