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Vertical Gardening Within a Cross-Laminated Timber Home

Author:
Alessandra Brizzolari
Vertical Gardening Within a Cross-Laminated Timber Home

Project in-detail

Constructed from cross-laminated timber, this compact residence integrates vertical gardening systems and multifunctional spaces to promote sustainable living while providing essential housing solutions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed entirely of cross-laminated timber for enhanced sustainability.
02
Incorporates a hydroponic gardening system for food production.
03
Features multifunctional furniture to optimize living space.
04
Designed to adapt between living and sleeping areas as needed.
05
Includes a dedicated area for exercise and outdoor activities.

The MICRO HOUSE offers a practical solution to affordable housing needs, particularly important in the context of recent global health crises. It emphasizes simple, efficient living without losing comfort. The design is adaptable, making it suitable for both urban and rural settings while focusing on self-sufficiency.

Internal Configuration

Inside, the MICRO HOUSE maintains an organized layout to make the best use of available space. A central service block plays a crucial role in connecting the living area with the sleeping quarters. The living space can serve multiple purposes; it can easily change into a second bedroom when necessary. Features include a sofa that converts into a bed, ample storage options, and a multifunctional bench that acts as both a table and additional seating. This arrangement allows residents to adjust the space based on their immediate needs, which can vary during changing circumstances.



Functional Areas

The bedroom area includes a folding bed, which helps keep the room open for other uses during the day. Both the kitchen and bathroom are compact yet equipped with essential amenities, ensuring everything needed for daily life is within reach. Their design allows for easy access from either living or sleeping spaces, helping residents navigate their home comfortably.



Sustainable Exterior

The exterior layout prioritizes outdoor engagement and sustainable practices. Spaces for exercise and gardening are thoughtfully included, encouraging occupants to stay active and connected to nature. A drawer built into the outdoor decking simplifies storage for a bike roller system, promoting an active lifestyle. The exterior wall also features a hydroponic garden, supporting urban farming practices. This element highlights a commitment to sustainable living, allowing residents to grow their own fresh produce.



Material Selection

The choice of cross-laminated timber (CLT) for construction is notable. This material is light, making assembly and transport manageable. It also contributes positively to the building's energy efficiency. By choosing CLT, the design aligns with eco-friendly goals, emphasizing a responsible approach to modern housing.



The careful blend of functional spaces and effective design features in the MICRO HOUSE exemplifies a thoughtful response to today’s housing challenges. Practical elements like the adaptable living area and integrated gardening system create a home that meets diverse needs while remaining sustainable.

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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
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