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Vertical Wind Turbine and Daylight Atrium in a Compact Plywood Shelter

Authors:
Kristina Goncharov, Dilara Murzagaliyeva
Vertical Wind Turbine and Daylight Atrium in a Compact Plywood Shelter

Project in-detail

A vertical wind turbine powers a compact plywood shelter that integrates a daylight atrium, providing an efficient and sustainable living space for its residents.
5 key facts about this project
01
The vertical wind turbine enables energy generation even at low wind speeds.
02
Plywood panels and timber framing provide a lightweight yet durable structure.
03
A daylight atrium enhances natural light and offers a stargazing experience.
04
Integrated vertical storage solutions maximize space efficiency.
05
Clean water tanks are discreetly housed beneath the structure for accessibility.

The Beco House is a temporary, off-grid housing solution that is designed to fit various terrains. It serves as a living space for up to four residents and focuses on sustainability and self-sufficiency. The overall design aims to create minimal environmental impact while providing a comfortable and functional home.

Energy Generation and Sustainability

The design features a vertical wind turbine that effectively converts wind energy into electricity. It can operate regardless of wind direction, allowing for energy generation even at low wind speeds. This setup significantly contributes to the house's energy independence. Complementing this, solar panels have been installed on the south-facing roof to provide additional power, particularly for heating water and lighting. Together, these elements highlight a strong commitment to using renewable energy.

Materiality and Construction

The Beco House is primarily made of plywood panels and a timber framework. This choice of materials is both practical and allows for easy assembly and disassembly. The design prioritizes durability while also accommodating the temporary nature of the dwelling. The construction process is straightforward, facilitating quick transport and installation in various locations.

Interior Layout and Functionality

Inside, the layout is designed to maximize efficiency and comfort. There is a central cooking area that includes a counter, sink, and hob, creating a space for meals and social interaction. Small storage cavities near each bed provide convenient space for personal items. The inclusion of a fireplace allows for coal storage that enhances warmth and comfort. Additionally, clean water tanks are discreetly placed beneath the house, making plumbing connections easily accessible.

The central daylight atrium brings in natural light and warmth, enriching the living experience while enabling stargazing at night. This design feature ties the indoor space to its natural surroundings, making it feel open and connected to the outdoors.

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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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