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Vertical Greenery and Solar-Powered Microhome Crafted from Lightweight Concrete and Wood

Author:
Carla Rossi
Vertical Greenery and Solar-Powered Microhome Crafted from Lightweight Concrete and Wood

Project in-detail

Featuring innovative sits-openings that seamlessly blend indoor and outdoor spaces, this microhome utilizes lightweight concrete and sustainable wood to create a flexible living environment designed for urban dwellers.
5 key facts about this project
01
The microhome utilizes sits-openings that enhance natural light while maintaining privacy.
02
Modular construction allows for flexible expansion to adapt to changing occupant needs.
03
A vertical green system provides an interior garden space that improves air quality and aesthetics.
04
Solar photovoltaic panels on the roof contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability.
05
The combination of lightweight concrete and wood creates a unique balance of durability and warmth.
The Microhome project represents a thoughtful exploration of compact living within the modern architectural landscape. Designed to occupy a mere 25 square meters, this project focuses on maximizing functionality while maintaining the quality of life of its occupants. The primary objective of the Microhome is to create an efficient living space that caters to both public interactions and private moments, addressing the challenges posed by urban density and limited available land.

At its core, the Microhome employs a modular design approach, centered on a construction module measuring 50x50 cm. This innovative method allows for flexibility in the layout and future expansion, accommodating the changing needs of its inhabitants. The design showcases a keen awareness of spatial dynamics, with features such as 'sits-openings'—vertical slits that extend from floor to ceiling. These openings serve to connect the interior with the surrounding environment, fostering an interaction between indoor spaces and outdoor landscapes while providing ample natural light.

Materiality plays a significant role in the Microhome's success. The structure is primarily constructed from Ytong Climaplus lightweight concrete blocks, selected for their excellent thermal properties and ease of installation. A careful combination of coatings enhances the aesthetic appeal and resilience of the building. Metallic coatings adorn the exterior, not only lending a modern look but also contributing to durability, while plaster and wood coatings are utilized inside to create inviting and warm environments. Innovative elements like micro-perforated sheet panels allow natural light to filter in while maintaining privacy, demonstrating a nuanced approach to building design that prioritizes both comfort and functionality.

The layout of the Microhome is specifically designed to meet the diverse needs of its occupants. Key areas include a compact kitchen, a multi-functional living room, and a tranquil sleeping area, all seamlessly integrated into the limited space. The project emphasizes bioclimatic principles, with solar photovoltaic panels installed on the roof, generating renewable energy and contributing to the sustainability goals of contemporary architecture. Furthermore, vertical green systems are incorporated within the design, offering an interior garden that enhances the quality of life and adds a natural touch to the home.

What sets the Microhome apart is not just its size but its adaptability and thoughtfulness in design. The modular nature allows for various aggregation models, either through symmetric arrangements that provide a balanced aesthetic or through gradual expansions that grow with the family. This approach allows for a continuous evolution of the living space, reflecting the changing dynamics of modern life and family structures.

In addition to its versatile design, the Microhome serves as a conceptual model for future developments in urban architecture, particularly as cities increasingly grapple with housing shortages and rising populations. By illustrating that livability does not have to be compromised in smaller spaces, the project presents an architectural blueprint for sustainable living in an increasingly urbanized world.

Readers interested in a deeper understanding of the Microhome should explore the project presentation for architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural ideas that further illustrate the innovative design elements and thoughtful materiality inherent in this compelling project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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