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Sustainable Living with Latticework and Cigs Technology

Authors:
Lindsay Hu, Erin Liu, Joyce Gu, Charlie Colasurdo
Sustainable Living with Latticework and Cigs Technology

Project in-detail

Constructed with a lattice framework of recycled Ulin wood and powered by CIGS solar technology, this community-focused complex promotes sustainable living through shared spaces and eco-friendly practices.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lattice framework uses recycled Ulin wood for sustainable construction.
02
CIGS solar technology provides renewable energy directly on rooftops.
03
Communal spaces encourage interaction and shared living experiences.
04
Integrated green walls enhance biodiversity and manage stormwater.
05
Elevated design mitigates flooding risks in the urban setting.

The G-Hub is located in Surabaya, Indonesia, designed to accommodate the growing housing needs of the city's creative workforce. It is a quasi-public, off-grid complex that emphasizes communal living and environmentally friendly practices. Inspired by the Javanese idea of "guyub," which highlights community connections, the design promotes a sense of belonging while integrating shared amenities and sustainable energy solutions.

Lattice Structure and Materiality

The design features a lattice framework made from small, identical wooden building blocks connected by secure fasteners. This approach allows for mass production using recycled Ulin wood, aligning with sustainability goals. The use of regional materials not only minimizes the project's carbon footprint but also enhances its connection to the local context. The visual quality of the lattice adds a unique character, marrying form and function.

Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

CIGS (copper indium gallium diselenide) thin-film solar cells are positioned on the roofs of each microhome, providing a reliable source of renewable energy. This technology is both efficient and eco-friendly, ensuring that the energy generated meets or exceeds the needs of the residents. The design is based on sound calculations about energy production, creating a self-sufficient living environment that reflects a commitment to ecological considerations.

Community-Centric Design

Key to the G-Hub is its communal spaces designed to encourage interaction among residents. Shared facilities, including a kitchen, indoor and outdoor seating, and a library, are thoughtfully arranged to promote social engagement. This layout increases flexibility, allowing spaces to be used for both individual and group activities. The focus is on fostering an active lifestyle and strong community ties.

Natural Light and Ventilation

Inside, natural light floods the microhomes thanks to numerous windows and skylights. This thoughtful design enhances the atmosphere while ensuring adequate ventilation throughout the spaces. Such features not only make the homes feel more spacious but also support residents' comfort in Surabaya's warm climate. The architectural choices greatly contribute to overall livability.

The design further incorporates green walls that enhance the visual appeal of the buildings. These vertical gardens provide ecological benefits, aiding in stormwater management and supporting local wildlife. By integrating these natural elements into the urban environment, the G-Hub promotes a harmonious relationship between architecture and nature.

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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
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