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Utilizing Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Walls for Compact Urban Living

Authors:
Xinzi Deng, Yao Wei
Utilizing Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Walls for Compact Urban Living

Project in-detail

Harnessing the warmth of charred wooden shingles and the efficiency of modular walls, this compact urban dwelling redefines small-space living by prioritizing sustainability and community integration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Features modular walls that maximize interior functionality in a compact footprint.
03
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
04
Designed with geometric windows to optimize natural light and ventilation.
05
Integrates acoustic treatments to effectively reduce urban noise.

### Project Overview

The Micro Luxe project is located within a densely populated urban area, designed to offer a compact yet functional living solution for modern professionals and couples. Its intent is to utilize limited space effectively while incorporating sustainable technologies. The design emphasizes multifunctional spaces that adapt to the lifestyle of its residents, responding to contemporary demands for efficient urban living.

### Spatial Configuration and Materiality

The architectural approach prioritizes verticality to maximize usable square footage within a small footprint. The interior layout fosters an open flow, with components such as a multi-functional wall that houses essential living areas—including a kitchen, bedroom, and storage—within a single structure. Features such as accessible terraces promote outdoor interaction, enhancing community engagement.

Material selection plays a critical role in both aesthetics and functionality. The façade features vertical wooden slats, which not only provide warmth but also create a dynamic visual experience as they interact with light. Structural components are composed of steel, ensuring durability while maintaining minimal visual lines. Glass is utilized extensively to enhance connectivity with the outdoor environment, increase natural light penetration, and improve energy efficiency. Acoustic panels contribute to noise reduction, fostering a tranquil atmosphere within the urban setting.

### Sustainability Strategies

Micro Luxe integrates several sustainable initiatives designed to minimize ecological impact. Roof-mounted solar panels facilitate renewable energy use, while a rainwater harvesting system allows for the recycling of water for non-potable purposes. The building design employs passive techniques, including strategic orientation to optimize natural ventilation and daylighting. This approach reduces reliance on artificial climate control systems, promoting an eco-friendly living environment.

Materials are carefully chosen not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their thermal performance and sustainability. The structural elements, insulation, and renewable energy systems work in conjunction to create an efficient living space that meets the demands of contemporary urban life.

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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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