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Timber Habitability Merged with Renewable Energy in a Hexagonal Mountain Retreat

Author:
MANOLIS SANTORINAIOS
Timber Habitability Merged with Renewable Energy in a Hexagonal Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing treated wood and a hexagonal form, this mountain retreat incorporates renewable energy systems while providing a functional space for communal living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a hexagonal footprint to maximize space and natural light.
02
Incorporates treated wood for structural integrity and environmental resistance.
03
Features a gravity-fed water system for efficient resource management.
04
Integrates renewable energy technologies with a small wind turbine.
05
Designed for modular expansion to adapt to changing community needs.

## Overview
Located in a mountainous landscape reminiscent of the Himalayan region, the Hexagon Project focuses on creating sustainable and adaptable architectural solutions that integrate with the natural environment. The design ethos is rooted in harmonizing human habitation with nature, drawing inspiration from the hexagonal geometry of snowflakes. This initiative seeks to create structures that minimize environmental impact while providing functional and aesthetically pleasing shelter.

### Spatial Strategy
The architectural layout is centered on a hexagonal footprint, optimizing space utilization and promoting natural light. Each unit spans approximately 37 square meters, divided into two levels: the lower level accommodates social activities, such as cooking and gathering, while the upper level contains sleeping spaces featuring bunk beds. The design allows for modular growth by enabling multiple units to connect seamlessly, facilitating increased visitor capacity without compromising the integrity of the site.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental resilience. The primary structural material is treated wood, selected for its renewable properties and thermal insulation capabilities, minimizing moisture retention. Copper roofing ensures durability and weather resistance, while mineral wool insulation enhances energy efficiency in cold climates. A reinforced concrete base provides stability on uneven terrain, accommodating harsh weather conditions. Additionally, the project incorporates water management systems that utilize melting snow, gravity-fed plumbing, and renewable energy sources, such as a small wind turbine for electrical needs.

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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
competition now

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