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Triple-Glazed Windows and Flexible Spaces in a Compact Eco-Friendly Home

Author:
Movila Daniel
Triple-Glazed Windows and Flexible Spaces in a Compact Eco-Friendly Home

Project in-detail

With triple-glazed windows and a retractable workspace, the design integrates eco-friendly features within a compact 25-square-meter home that supports a sustainable lifestyle for modern professionals.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible furniture adapts to changing needs within the compact layout.
02
Triple-glazed windows enhance energy efficiency and natural light penetration.
03
A retractable workspace accommodates remote work for two occupants.
04
The design promotes a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Sustainable features include large water tanks and solar panels for off-grid living.

The NoMan initiative presents a compact design that redefines modern living for a young professional couple, rooted in ecological responsibility and sustainability. Covering an area of 25 square meters, the concept encourages a lifestyle that is closely tied to nature. It views human dwellings as borrowed spaces, promoting an approach to living that is both practical and mindful of the environment.

Spatial Efficiency

The design emphasizes the effective use of space through multifunctional elements. The upper bed not only serves as a sleeping area but also acts as a backrest for a convertible couch. This sofa can be transformed into a fully functional bed, allowing the area to adapt to various daily activities. The approach highlights the importance of flexibility in contemporary living.

Retractable Workspace

Another key feature is the retractable workspace, which caters to the needs of modern professionals. This space is designed to accommodate two users at the same time, enabling them to work comfortably in their home. This focus on functionality addresses the changing nature of work and living, making it a suitable environment for a busy lifestyle.

Environmental Integration

Integrating with the natural environment is a significant aspect of the design. The terrace and strategically placed glazed windows promote a smooth transition between indoor and outdoor spaces. This connection emphasizes the importance of natural interactions in daily life, encouraging residents to engage with their surroundings.

Sustainable Practices

Material choices prioritize thermal efficiency and comfort, particularly through the use of triple-glazed windows. These windows improve energy conservation by providing better insulation and allowing ample daylight. This aligns with passive design principles, creating a comfortable indoor climate while supporting environmental goals.

The self-sufficiency of the dwelling is enhanced by features like large water tanks and solar panels located on the southern slope. These elements support an off-grid lifestyle, catering to basic energy needs. The design culminates in a thoughtful residential experience that fosters a close relationship with the surrounding environment.

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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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