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Vertical Railing System and Corrugated Metal Crafting Compact Living Solutions

Authors:
Fawaz Dandachi, Arowa Dandachi, Ahmed El assaad
Vertical Railing System and Corrugated Metal Crafting Compact Living Solutions

Project in-detail

Employing a vertical railing system and robust corrugated metal, this compact living solution efficiently redefines urban housing by maximizing flexibility and functionality in limited space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Vertical railing system allows for flexible furniture arrangements.
02
Integrated water management system reuses treated water for irrigation.
03
Compact footprint maximizes living space in urban environments.
04
Constructed with durable corrugated metal for weather resistance.
05
High levels of insulation ensure energy efficiency throughout.

The Compressed Living Microhouse is located in an urban area where space is limited. This design seeks to address the challenges of living in compact environments by enhancing functionality within a small footprint. The focus is on making the most out of every square meter while creating a cohesive living space. Features are arranged to support modern lifestyles, making the most of limited space.

Design Concept

The idea behind the design is to use space efficiently. Different areas, such as the kitchen, bathroom, living room, and sleeping area, are clearly defined while still allowing for interaction between them. A vertical railing system is a key part of this design. It allows for flexible use of furniture, making it easier to adapt the space for different needs. Residents can modify their environment to suit their daily activities.

Water Management Strategy

An important aspect of the microhouse is its practical approach to water management. All water produced within the home, whether from daily activities or washing, is collected in a drainage tank. From there, it goes to a septic system for treatment. This process makes it possible to reuse water for irrigation purposes. This strategy highlights the commitment to sustainability and helps ensure that resources are used wisely.

Material Selection

The choice of materials in the microhouse reflects the priorities of durability and energy efficiency. The exterior is made of corrugated metal, which offers strength and weather resistance. Plywood is used for structural elements, contributing to both stability and design flexibility. To keep the interior comfortable, both rigid and batt insulation are included. This approach limits energy use, helping maintain a stable environment inside the microhouse.

Construction Techniques

The assembly of the building emphasizes ease and accuracy. Components are designed for straightforward construction, using digital fabrication methods for precise results. This attention to detail helps to reduce labor time and simplifies the building process. Careful planning ensures that the construction works well in an urban setting, where space constraints can complicate traditional building practices.

The vertical railing system not only allows for a flexible living environment, but it also adds a unique touch to the interior. With this design, furniture can be easily adjusted, allowing the space to change with the occupants' needs.

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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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