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Timber Frame Micro Homes for Flexible Urban Living

Author:
Jana Krüger
Timber Frame Micro Homes for Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Crafted from a timber frame, the MicroHome offers flexible living solutions in urban environments, transforming underutilized spaces into personalized, compact residences.
5 key facts about this project
01
The timber frame structure allows for quick assembly and relocation.
02
Each unit is designed to function as an independent, off-grid living space.
03
Interim housing transforms vacant urban lots into usable residences.
04
The modular design encourages personalization and adaptability for occupants.
05
Integration with existing urban infrastructure promotes community connection.

The MicroHome project addresses the complexities of urbanization by offering adaptable, modular living spaces designed for underused city areas. This housing solution focuses on creating practical options for interim residency within urban settings. By emphasizing flexibility and efficiency, the MicroHome redefines modern urban living, where space and community matter.

Modularity

The design consists of four distinct units, each serving specific residential functions such as sleeping, dining, and working. This modularity allows residents to personalize their living areas according to their needs, enabling a smooth transition between different daily activities. These units promote interaction among residents while also providing the necessary privacy each individual wants.

Materiality

Constructed using a timber frame, the MicroHome enables quick assembly and disassembly. This choice of material supports the project’s overall flexibility and reflects a commitment to sustainable practices. The lightweight structure minimizes environmental impact and circumvents the limitations usually associated with more permanent housing options.

Urban Integration

The MicroHome effectively engages with existing urban infrastructure, connecting with the surrounding environment to promote both density and proximity. This integration is essential for fostering community within urban contexts, creating a collection of interconnected units that contribute to a cohesive living space. Each unit functions as a unique home while participating in a larger conversation about urban adaptability.

Functional Quality

The design prioritizes quality living in a compact form. Each space is created to ensure usability without sacrificing individuality. Features such as multi-functional furniture and adjustable layouts enhance the experience of limited square footage. This aspect demonstrates that thoughtful design can provide comfort and practicality, even when space is at a premium.

A notable aspect of the MicroHome is its ability to challenge traditional notions of urban living through easily adaptable architecture. It provides residents with customizable yet practical housing options that highlight both creativity and smart design.

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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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