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Steel Framework and Solar Panels Combined with Flexible Spaces in a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Simon Venturi, Dimitri Stamatis
Steel Framework and Solar Panels Combined with Flexible Spaces in a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Employing a versatile steel framework and integrating solar panels, the design creates flexible spaces that serve as a vibrant hub for community engagement and cultural activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs a modular design allowing for reconfiguration based on community needs.
02
Utilizes a steel framework to enhance structural flexibility and durability.
03
Incorporates solar panels to achieve energy self-sufficiency for the facility.
04
Features an amphitheater-style performance space to foster local artistic activities.
05
Integrates green roofs and walls to promote biodiversity and environmental sustainability.

### Project Overview

This community-centric architectural initiative is located in a densely populated urban area, designed with the intent to enhance creativity and social interaction. By providing an adaptable environment, it encourages artistic endeavors and facilitates cultural exchanges among diverse user groups. The structure embodies a modern approach to urban architecture, characterized by its flexible framework that can be reconfigured to meet the evolving needs of its occupants.

### Spatial Strategy

The design employs a "Framework of Creation," positioning the building as a dynamic environment rather than a static entity. This strategy emphasizes the integration of diverse activities, such as performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings, within an open, grid-based layout. This organization promotes easy navigation while blurring the boundaries between public and private spaces. Incorporating natural elements, including terraces with vegetation and designated green areas, provides a counterbalance to the urban context and enhances both aesthetic and environmental sustainability.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection is central to the design, reflecting its underlying principles of sustainability and functionality. The robust steel framework supports the structure while maintaining a lightweight and transparent quality. Extensive use of glass facades fosters a sense of openness and facilitates interaction with the surrounding environment. Additionally, solar panels are integrated to reduce the carbon footprint and improve energy self-sufficiency, while green roofs and walls create micro-ecosystems and promote biodiversity. The use of recycled and locally sourced materials further underscores a commitment to minimizing environmental impact.

The design incorporates modular spaces that adapt to various activities, an amphitheater-style performance area to facilitate large gatherings, and designated exhibition zones that promote cultural engagement. Public art displays are seamlessly integrated to encourage artistic expression, while landscaped greens provide spaces for leisure and socialization, contributing to the overall user experience.

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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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