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Vertical Garden Microhome Designed with Perforated Metal and Lightweight Sustainability

Authors:
Romain Max Jean Gaillard, Quentin Arnaud Loup Bellancourt, Thibaut Séverin François Etcheverry
Vertical Garden Microhome Designed with Perforated Metal and Lightweight Sustainability

Project in-detail

With a focus on perforated metal facades and integrated vertical gardens, this autonomous microhome offers sustainable living solutions for urban environments through its modular design and energy-efficient systems.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes perforated metal panels for enhanced ventilation and light control.
02
Incorporates vertical gardens to improve air quality and aesthetics.
03
Features a modular design for easy relocation and reconfiguration.
04
Employs a lightweight prefabrication method for efficient assembly.
05
Integrates renewable energy systems for self-sufficient living.

## Project Overview

The autonomous microhome project aims to develop sustainable living solutions that are adaptable to various urban settings, particularly in coastal and metropolitan areas. By integrating with existing infrastructures, the design seeks to optimize underutilized spaces, offering viable housing options in locations where land is scarce.

### Spatial Efficiency and Adaptability

The microhome emphasizes a vertical spatial organization that maximizes usable area while maintaining comfort. The interior layout features centrally located living areas that merge kitchen and social spaces, designed for functionality. A notable feature includes vertical gardens, which not only enhance aesthetic appeal but also contribute to improved air quality and foster a connection with nature. The design enables easy adaptation to diverse urban contexts, allowing the microhome to fit seamlessly into different environments, whether they are rooftops or bridge spaces.

### Material and Energy Strategy

Construction incorporates a range of materials that balance durability and aesthetic value. Kingspan panels serve as facade elements, providing insulation, while metal roofs offer structural integrity. Innovative perforated metal panels facilitate ventilation and light penetration while ensuring occupant privacy. The extensive use of glass enhances natural lighting and outward visibility. Renewable energy strategies are integral; solar panels generate power, and rainwater collection systems supply domestic water needs, reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability. Additionally, advanced waste management systems minimize environmental impact while supporting ecological practices, further aligning with sustainable development goals.

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

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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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