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Sustainable Living Enhanced by Precast Concrete and Modular Timber Elements

Author:
Sean Kevin Whaling
Sustainable Living Enhanced by Precast Concrete and Modular Timber Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating precast concrete and modular timber components, the design creates a flexible residential space that adapts to the dynamic needs of modern family living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes precast concrete panels for structural integrity and thermal mass.
02
Incorporates modular timber elements for easy future expansion.
03
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes a central atrium to maximize natural light and airflow.
05
Designed with native landscaping to minimize water usage and support biodiversity.

### Overview
Located in a community-oriented environment, the House of Future integrates modern architectural principles with traditional design elements to foster sustainability and adaptability. The intent is to create a living space that responds to the evolving needs of families while promoting a connection with nature. Environmental responsiveness permeates the design, combining flexibility with functional engagement in both private and shared spaces.

### Spatial Organization
The house is strategically positioned to maximize natural light and utilize prevailing winds, enhancing energy efficiency. The ground level includes essential service areas such as the kitchen and laundry, complemented by open-plan living and dining spaces that offer direct access to central courtyards. These areas are designed for optimal interaction and recreational use. The first level houses private quarters, including bedrooms and bathrooms, organized to ensure family privacy while promoting communal activities through dedicated gathering galleries. A roof terrace provides an additional outdoor space for entertainment and future expansions, incorporating additional solar energy facilities.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration
Material selection prioritizes sustainability and efficiency. Structural components include pre-cast concrete and concrete masonry units, providing durability and thermal mass. Aluminum and wood sash windows facilitate light entry and energy performance, while metal trellis systems support solar panels, optimizing energy consumption. Custom carved wood doors maintain privacy and security, while sustainable wood finishes enhance interior aesthetics. Additionally, outdoor courtyards with integrated water features are designed to facilitate passive cooling. The use of pre-finished metal panels for roofing and building edges not only improves the structure’s visual appeal but also reduces maintenance requirements.

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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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