Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Suspended Living Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Integrated Greenery

Suspended Living Spaces Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber and Integrated Greenery

Project in-detail

Suspended above the ground, this residence integrates cross-laminated timber and a hanging garden, creating a sustainable living environment that promotes both ecological mindfulness and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended structure minimizes land disturbance while incorporating natural landscapes.
02
Hanging garden design encourages self-sufficiency and community sharing of produce.
03
Cross-laminated timber ensures lightweight construction with enhanced structural integrity.
04
Integrated rainwater harvesting system promotes efficient resource management.
05
A bent A-frame design enhances aerodynamics and aesthetic appeal.

## Project Overview

Located within a context that reflects an evolving residential landscape, the design of the “Hanging Home” responds to contemporary needs for flexible living spaces in a post-pandemic environment. The project's intent revolves around minimizing environmental impact while establishing a close relationship with the natural surroundings through a suspended structure that elevates the living experience above the ground.

## Structural Innovation

### Suspended Framework

The primary structural innovation is the suspended framework, which significantly reduces the footprint of the residence and lessens ground disturbance. This approach not only preserves the ecological integrity of the surrounding area but also allows for natural land utilization beneath the structure.

### Material Selection

Careful attention to materiality is evident in the choice of materials that prioritize sustainability and functionality. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is prominently used for its strength and light weight, while steel tension rods effectively manage structural loads. Expansive glass windows enhance natural light and establish a visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Concrete elements provide stability to the structure's base, and natural finishes contribute to both the aesthetic appeal and environmental considerations of the design.

## Spatial Configuration

### Adaptive Internal Layout

The internal layout is strategically organized to accommodate both private and communal activities. Key functional areas include a multifunctional living space designed for relaxation and social interaction, a kitchenette with integrated workspaces, and sleeping quarters that can transition from work areas to restful retreats. Additionally, an entry space encourages interaction with visitors while fostering community involvement through the sharing of produce from the integrated hanging garden.

### Sustainable Resource Management

The design incorporates a range of sustainable features, including a comprehensive water management system that utilizes rainwater harvesting and a three-stage filtration process for effective recycling. Energy efficiency is enhanced through the installation of solar panels, which meet household energy needs, and a holistic circular life cycle approach that integrates waste management and resource utilization into everyday living.

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