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Sustainable Living Spaces Enhanced by Natural Wood and Adaptable Design Elements

Authors:
Dwi Sasmito, Abdul Rokhim, Noor aini Oktaviana sari, Mochammad Bachrul ilham
Sustainable Living Spaces Enhanced by Natural Wood and Adaptable Design Elements

Project in-detail

Emphasizing flexibility through modular design and crafted with waterproof boards and aluminum frames, this residence fosters a sense of community while providing essential living space for young couples in Surabaya.
5 key facts about this project
01
The residence utilizes waterproof boards for enhanced durability against local climate conditions.
02
It features a flexible modular configuration to accommodate various living arrangements.
03
The design incorporates aluminum frames with safety glass for optimal natural light and security.
04
Solar panels and geothermal systems provide renewable energy, promoting sustainability.
05
The layout emphasizes communal living while offering private spaces for residents.
The Micro Ambayar Home project is a thoughtfully considered architectural design aiming to address the needs of young couples living in the densely populated urban landscape of Surabaya, Indonesia. This distinctive residential concept reflects a nuanced understanding of contemporary living conditions, where space is at a premium and social interactions play a crucial role in daily life. The project aims not only to provide shelter but to cultivate a sense of community while navigating the complexities of modern relationships.

At its core, the Micro Ambayar Home represents a fusion of private and communal spaces, designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The architecture carefully segments areas within the home into living, working, and social spaces that can be adapted according to the users' needs. Each individual space measures 2.5 x 2.5 meters, allowing for flexible configurations that can adapt to different activities throughout the day. Such arrangements make it possible for the living room to transform into a workspace or sleeping area, offering versatility that is essential for urban living.

Unique to this project is its conceptual foundation rooted in the Javanese philosophy of “Ambayar,” which symbolizes the challenges of fragmentation in daily life and, concurrently, the pursuit of cohesion. This thematic influence is evident in the architectural approach that encourages not only individual expression but also community engagement. The design integrates public and private areas, ensuring that while residents enjoy personal privacy, they are also provided with common spaces that foster social interaction and bonding among neighbors.

The building’s material palette was selected to align with both aesthetic aspirations and functional requirements. The use of waterproof boards for walls ensures durability and longevity, while the metal sheets used for roofing provide thermal regulation and ease of maintenance. Windows framed in aluminum with safety glass allow ample natural light into the interiors, promoting energy efficiency and enhancing the residents’ living experience. Additionally, the choice of FERGIO Type Willow Wood flooring offers a warmth and natural quality, contributing to a welcoming home environment.

Innovative energy solutions are embedded within the design, showcasing a commitment to sustainability. The incorporation of solar panels and geothermal energy systems provides the residence with renewable energy sources, allowing residents to live independently of municipal power grids. This attention to sustainability factor underscores the project’s relevance in contemporary architecture, addressing both ecological concerns and the practical realities of urban living.

The layout further emphasizes adaptability, employing features reminiscent of a Rubik’s cube, which allows residents to manipulate their environment easily. This design encourages users to exercise creativity in their spatial arrangements, which is essential for reflecting their lifestyles. The project also utilizes natural lighting and ventilation to minimize reliance on artificial systems, illustrating an intelligent response to Surabaya’s climatic conditions.

The Micro Ambayar Home serves as a vital example of how thoughtful architectural design can respond to urban challenges. By providing a solution that emphasizes connectivity and flexibility, it encapsulates essential architectural ideas relevant to modern housing. It uniquely balances individual needs with collective social dynamics, paving the way for innovative residential solutions in an expanding urban landscape.

For readers interested in a closer look at the Micro Ambayar Home and its architectural nuances, including detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged. This will offer deeper insights into the innovative approaches taken in this project, showcasing how it addresses the contemporary demands of urban living in a coherent and meaningful way.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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