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Suspended Structure Featuring Galvanized Steel and Kingspan Panels for Sustainable Living

Author:
Viliam KolesnÁČ
Suspended Structure Featuring Galvanized Steel and Kingspan Panels for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

A leaf-shaped structure elevated on steel columns utilizes galvanized components and Kingspan panels to create a sustainable living environment that integrates energy efficiency with a seamless connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Leaf-inspired form enhances wind resistance and rainwater management.
02
Suspended structure elevates the living space, promoting natural drainage and airflow.
03
Incorporates vertical wind turbine for added renewable energy generation.
04
Built using Kingspan QuadCore panels for superior insulation and energy efficiency.
05
Generous balcony spaces seamlessly connect indoor living with outdoor environments.

## Project Overview

Located in a natural setting, the "Leaves for Live" project features a two-floor structure supported by steel columns, creating an impression of a building that is elevated above the ground. The design draws inspiration from leaf forms, integrating aesthetic elements with functional aspects to establish a strong connection to the surrounding environment. This eco-friendly initiative prioritizes ecological responsibility and contemporary architectural strategies to address environmental concerns.

### Spatial and Functional Strategy

The building’s layout promotes openness and interaction with nature through large windows and meticulously designed outdoor spaces, such as balconies that encourage residents to engage with their surroundings. The ground floor includes a living room designed to maximize natural light and a small balcony enhancing connectivity with the exterior. On the first floor, a bedroom features expansive windows that afford views and a further connection to the outside. Innovative storage solutions throughout the home demonstrate a commitment to functional design while preserving visual coherence.

### Material and Sustainability Integration

The project employs materials selected for their durability and sustainability. Galvanized steel forms the structural framework, ensuring longevity and resistance to corrosion. Insulated Kingspan QuadCore panels are used in the walls and roof, contributing to energy efficiency and reduced carbon emissions. The inclusion of photovoltaic panels on the roof captures solar energy to meet the building’s power needs, while a rainwater collection system facilitates resource conservation for irrigation and plumbing. These choices reflect a commitment to a low environmental footprint, integrating innovative technologies that enhance both sustainability and everyday living.

The design features a vertical wind turbine to further harness renewable energy sources and a spiral staircase that not only serves as a practical element for circulation but also enhances the aesthetic appeal within the interior. Overall, the project exemplifies a thoughtful blend of modern architectural principles with a commitment to environmental stewardship and user-centered design.

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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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