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Sustainable Living Through Curved Roofs and Charred Wooden Shingles in Eco-Friendly Housing

Author:
Minjae Kim
Sustainable Living Through Curved Roofs and Charred Wooden Shingles in Eco-Friendly Housing

Project in-detail

Curved roofs of charred wooden shingles encapsulate eco-friendly homes that utilize microalgae for energy production and biogas systems for resource management, creating a sustainable living environment in Sicily.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved roofs enhance natural ventilation and light management.
02
Charred wooden shingles offer both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels contribute to structural stability and thermal performance.
04
Integrated microalgae systems generate renewable energy for the homes.
05
Biogas components convert waste into usable energy, supporting sustainability.

## Project Overview

Located in Nicolosi, Sicily, this architectural design initiative aims to promote sustainable living as a response to contemporary challenges such as climate change and energy shortages. The intent is to establish eco-conscious communities by integrating innovative technologies within structures that are inspired by natural forms, particularly the characteristics and growth stages of plant buds. The design prioritizes efficiency, occupant well-being, and environmental harmony.

## Structure and Form

The architecture is defined by its organic, bud-like shapes that enhance natural ventilation. Each unit includes a sloped, curved roof designed to optimize airflow and minimize heat retention. Skylights are strategically placed to provide natural light while facilitating ventilation, contributing to an improved indoor environment. The adaptable layout maximizes space usage, incorporating multifunctional elements such as wall-mounted foldable furniture and ladder access to upper levels, ensuring functionality within a reduced footprint.

## Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a core component of the design, reflected in innovative systems such as microalgae-based power generation on rooftops and integrated water recycling systems. These sustainable practices promote efficient resource management and aim to lower utility costs and environmental impact. Furthermore, the project features biogas conversion systems that transform organic waste into usable energy, reinforcing the commitment to reducing carbon footprints and fostering self-sufficiency within the community. The layout also encourages social interaction through shared gardens and communal spaces, enhancing the overall living experience in this environmentally attuned development.

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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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