Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Two-Shell Residential Structure with Passive Ventilation and Low-Emissivity Glass

Author:
Zhaowen Zheng
Two-Shell Residential Structure with Passive Ventilation and Low-Emissivity Glass

Project in-detail

Combining a two-shell design with passive ventilation and low-emissivity glass, the structure provides adaptable residential space for everyday living while efficiently managing health-related needs during emergencies.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dual-functionality allows for seamless transition between ordinary living and isolation for health emergencies.
02
Passive ventilation system minimizes virus transmission while enhancing indoor air quality.
03
Two-shell design optimizes energy efficiency by adapting to local climatic conditions.
04
Negative-pressure wards can be created within individual units for swift health interventions.
05
Low-emissivity glass used in the building envelope improves thermal performance and comfort.

The design features a dual-function residential building that responds to the challenges associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Located in a context focused on health and safety, the structure can be used for everyday living or converted to accommodate individuals needing isolation due to infectious diseases. This approach merges the need for practical living spaces with strategies aimed at promoting well-being.

Passive Ventilation

A notable aspect of the building is its passive ventilation system. This system reduces the potential transmission of viruses within the indoor environment. By improving air quality without needing extensive mechanical processes, the design prioritizes the health of its residents.



Climate Regulation

The project incorporates techniques for passive climate regulation. It features an air layer that helps maintain comfortable temperatures throughout the year. In warm weather, the system effectively removes excess heat, while in colder months, it minimizes heat loss, providing comfort regardless of the season.



Two-Shell Concept

The design employs a two-shell concept, which is inspired by the principles seen in the Smith House. This architectural method enhances the building's performance by adapting to local weather conditions. By optimizing the building envelope, it improves energy efficiency and helps keep indoor environments comfortable.



Functional Layout

The arrangement of living spaces demonstrates flexibility, with units designed for typical residential use that can be quickly adapted into negative-pressure wards. This ability to shift use supports timely responses during health emergencies and ensures that the building can serve various needs while retaining its residential character.



Inside, the structure features steel for connection points, hard low-emissivity glass for effective temperature control, and wooden components that bring a natural touch. These materials contribute to the design’s overall functionality and appeal, creating a cohesive living environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy