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Timber Microhomes with Flexible Spaces and Honeycomb Geometry

Author:
Nina Manchorova
Timber Microhomes with Flexible Spaces and Honeycomb Geometry

Project in-detail

With its honeycomb geometry and prefabricated timber construction, this microhome exemplifies flexible living spaces that cater to the diverse needs of urban residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The microhome incorporates a honeycomb geometry for efficient spatial organization.
02
The design features a modular structure that allows for easy reconfiguration of living spaces.
03
Prefabricated timber systems reduce construction time and enhance sustainability.
04
Underfloor storage solutions maximize functionality within a compact footprint.
05
Flexible design elements promote community interaction while maintaining privacy.

The Hive is a modern design that focuses on the challenges of urban living through a thoughtful approach to structure and space. Located in a bustling urban environment, the Hive serves as a micro home that meets the varied needs of its inhabitants. The design is based on modularity and flexibility, allowing each unit to adapt according to the lifestyle of its residents while fostering a connection to the broader community.

Modularity and Flexibility

The layout of the Hive features both fixed and flexible components. Fixed areas include essential functions like cooking and bathing, while flexible zones can be used for dining, working, resting, or sleeping. This arrangement provides options for residents to customize their environments based on their activities and preferences. The design supports a lifestyle that can change and evolve, making it practical for modern urban dwellers.

Material Choice

Prefabricated building systems play a key role in the Hive's construction. The design employs Structural Insulated Panels and l-joist frames, which facilitate efficient assembly and reduce on-site construction time. The use of timber ensures durability while also contributing to energy efficiency. This material selection aligns with practices aimed at sustainability and comfort in living spaces, creating a welcoming atmosphere for residents.

Spatial Efficiency

The Hive is designed to make the most of a small footprint. It addresses the challenges posed by rising urban density, allowing for different configurations that fit various site conditions. This adaptability is essential in contemporary urban environments. By promoting cohabitation and encouraging interaction among residents, the Hive reflects the importance of community, while still providing personal spaces for individual privacy.

The design includes a unique honeycomb geometry that enhances both visual interest and functionality. This shape not only contributes to the overall aesthetics but also emphasizes the Hive's role in creating a shared living experience, blending individual needs with community engagement.

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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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