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Tatami Living Transformed Through Sustainable Wood and Practical Utility Solutions

Authors:
Xuan Vo, Catherine Dunkerson
Tatami Living Transformed Through Sustainable Wood and Practical Utility Solutions

Project in-detail

Utilizing traditional tatami mats and local wood trusses, this off-grid home integrates sustainable features such as a rainwater collection system and solar panels, creating a compact and multifunctional living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes traditional tatami mats for multifunctional living space.
02
Incorporates local wood trusses for structural and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features integrated rainwater collection system for sustainable water use.
04
Equipped with solar panels to support off-grid energy needs.
05
Compact design emphasizes efficient use of limited space.

TrussTatami is designed as a compact living space that measures 25 square meters. Located in Vietnam, it incorporates traditional Japanese tatami mats, allowing the design to fulfill several functions. The focus is on sustainability and practicality, providing a comfortable environment while meeting the needs of modern living.

Materials and Structure

Wood serves as the primary building material, which relates directly to the local environment. The use of wood trusses adds both strength and visual warmth to the structure. This choice not only reflects local craftsmanship but also creates an inviting atmosphere within the home.

Sustainable Energy Solutions

The house features solar panels on the roof, which are important for renewable energy use. This addition minimizes energy costs and supports eco-friendly living. By emphasizing these elements, the design respects ecological concerns while ensuring that daily energy needs are met.

Utility and Space Optimization

A utility space is cleverly integrated into a thick wall, acting as insulation against heat. This design maximizes comfort indoors while accommodating essential functions. A rainwater collection system, biogas digester, and hot water storage contribute to efficient resource management.

The tatami area allows for easy transitions between different uses, serving as a living room, storage, and bedroom. This practical approach highlights the balance between functionality and cultural heritage, reflecting a lifestyle that honors tradition while adapting to present-day requirements.

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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

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