Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Sustainable Living Through Modular Design and Kingspan Materials in An Arid Landscape

Author:
Rame Schelhaas Hruska
Sustainable Living Through Modular Design and Kingspan Materials in An Arid Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with Kingspan materials and optimized for off-grid living, this microhome effectively integrates modular design within the challenging arid conditions of the Texas desert.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Kingspan Quadcore insulated panels for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system tailored for desert conditions.
03
Features a flexible interior layout with a multifunctional wall bed design.
04
Constructed off-site to minimize environmental impact during installation.
05
Designed to leverage natural light through extensive glazing for energy efficiency.

## Overview
CUBO microhome is a contemporary architectural project situated in the Chihuahuan Desert near Terlingua, Texas. It embodies principles of minimalism and sustainability while addressing modern living requirements. The design, inspired by the geometric purity of a cube, aims to optimize the use of limited space and promote occupant wellbeing through thoughtful spatial organization and integration with the surrounding landscape.

## Spatial Strategy
The microhome's layout emphasizes flexible spatial configurations, facilitating multipurpose zones that adapt to user needs. Notable features include a convertible wall bed that transforms sleeping quarters into a functional living area, thus maximizing utility in a compact footprint. The floor plan clearly delineates spaces for living, cooking, sleeping, bathing, and storage, with each zone designed to encourage multifunctionality. The living area enhances interaction with the outdoors, inviting activities such as stargazing and outdoor gatherings through large glazing that connects interior spaces to the environment.

## Sustainability and Materiality
Sustainability is a cornerstone of the design, which incorporates an off-grid system featuring solar panels, a water condensation system, and energy-efficient materials to minimize environmental impact. The choice of materials, including Kingspan insulated wall panels, rainwater collection tanks, and R-9 spray foam insulation, underscores the project’s commitment to energy efficiency and ecological compatibility. Elevated design techniques, such as raising the structure to prevent flooding and promote natural drainage, further enhance its resilience against the climate extremes of the region. This thoughtful approach to construction and resource management not only reduces reliance on municipal services but also fosters a responsible and environmentally sensitive living solution.

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

`

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