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 Microhome Using Kingspan Panels and Photovoltaics for Emergency Housing

Authors:
Lucas Stéphane Patrick Dias, Thomas Albert Stanislas Barouh
Sustainable Microhome Using Kingspan Panels and Photovoltaics for Emergency Housing

Project in-detail

Constructed with Kingspan QuadCore panels and integrated photovoltaic systems, this microhome offers a swift, adaptable solution for emergency housing while ensuring energy efficiency and effective insulation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed to accommodate 12 individuals, the microhome offers versatile living arrangements within a compact design.
02
Integrated photovoltaic panels ensure self-sufficiency in energy, enhancing sustainability in emergency settings.
03
Utilizes Kingspan QuadCore panels that provide high insulation while minimizing overall weight.
04
The modular layout promotes communal interaction while maintaining private spaces for residents.
05
Rapid assembly and disassembly allow for quick deployment in response to humanitarian needs.

**Overview**
The Twin Horizon Retreat is an innovative microhome designed to meet urgent humanitarian needs arising in crisis situations, including armed conflicts and natural disasters. This project focuses on delivering comfort and functionality to displaced individuals through adaptable and sustainable architectural solutions. The twin modular units provide a livable space for up to 12 occupants, offering essential amenities to support the basic needs of those in emergency scenarios.

**Spatial Configuration**
The retreat comprises two strategically arranged modules: Module A functions as sleeping and resting quarters, while Module B enhances the living experience with communal areas that include a kitchen, dining space, and bathroom facilities. This thoughtful spatial organization supports communal interaction while ensuring private settings are available for individual users. Flexible furniture solutions, such as fold-down tables and beds, allow for easy reconfiguration according to user needs and group sizes.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
A selection of durable materials is employed within the design to enhance functionality and environmental efficiency. Photovoltaic panels provide renewable energy, while Kingspan QuadCore® wall panels offer excellent insulation without adding significant weight. The structural integrity is supported by steel trusses and a combination of wooden beams, with a metal roof designed for effective rainwater collection. Additionally, the microhome’s components can be easily disassembled and reused, aligning with circular economy principles. The use of organic curtains and recyclable textiles also underscores a commitment to ecological integrity. This cohesive approach not only minimizes the carbon footprint but also contributes to more sustainable emergency architecture.

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

`
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

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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
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