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Translucent Roof Panels and Quadcore Insulation Enhance Compact Micro Living Space

Translucent Roof Panels and Quadcore Insulation Enhance Compact Micro Living Space
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Utilizing translucent roof panels and QuadCore insulation, the design achieves high energy efficiency in a compact structure tailored for minimalist living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent roof panels provide natural light while maintaining thermal performance.
02
QuadCore insulation enhances energy efficiency in a compact footprint.
03
Charred wooden shingles offer increased durability and fire resistance.
04
The bent A-frame design aids in effective water drainage and snow shedding.
05
Integrated rainwater collection system promotes sustainable living practices.

## Project Overview

The micro home design project focuses on addressing urban housing challenges in Portland, Oregon, by creating sustainable and adaptable living environments. The intent is to provide efficient housing solutions that respond to the growing demand for flexibility and affordability in urban living contexts, particularly during increasing housing crises.

### Spatial Strategy

The micro home features a compact footprint of 6.00 m by 3.50 m, employing an open-plan layout that optimizes functionality while effectively utilizing space. Key areas within the design include a sleeping area that merges the bed with a seating space, facilitating relaxation and multi-use activities; a compact bathroom that incorporates essential amenities; a workspace featuring a desk that capitalizes on natural light; and a kitchenette designed for efficiency, providing only necessary cooking facilities.

### Material Selection

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the home’s design, prioritizing sustainability and efficiency. Primary materials include wood for structural elements, contributing warmth and integrity; Day-Lite translucent roof panels, allowing ample natural light while ensuring thermal efficiency; QuadCore LEC insulated wall panels for enhanced energy performance; cork flooring, which offers an eco-friendly option that improves acoustics; integrated solar modules to support energy independence, and a slimline water tank designed to collect and store rainwater, reinforcing the project’s off-grid nature.

### Structural Design

The architecture of the micro home is defined by an A-frame structure, which not only lends a modern aesthetic but also conducts effective water drainage and snow shedding, key considerations for varying climates. An integrated gutter system directs rainwater into rainwater tanks, highlighting the emphasis on sustainability. The design also accommodates prefabrication, enabling efficient transport and expedited construction, which enhances its adaptability across different locations.

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Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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