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Waffle Slab Core and Glazed Facade Define Sustainable Micro Living

Authors:
Federrico Mannino, Sonia Gaudencio
Waffle Slab Core and Glazed Facade Define Sustainable Micro Living
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Utilizing a container slab and a glazed façade, the design maximizes light and space efficiency while creating a sustainable micro home that integrates essential living functions with its natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a container slab for adaptable storage solutions.
02
Central square core houses all essential utilities.
03
Integrates an openable glazed wall for natural light and views.
04
Compact design spans just 25 square meters.
05
Optimized thermal performance through strategic layout.

The Microhome project offers a unique perspective on minimalist living within a compact space. Located in a natural environment, the design combines practicality with sustainability. The aim is to create a space that meets modern living requirements while also being mindful of resource consumption and land use. The guiding principle of "less is more" is evident throughout the design, making it suitable for contemporary lifestyles.

Core Structure
A square core serves as the foundation of the design, supported by main beams and a waffle slab. This core contains essential components such as a bathroom, water storage, and a battery system for solar energy. By centralizing these functions, the design reduces the building's overall footprint. This strategy allows the adjacent living area to be more functional and open.

Spatial Configuration
The Microhome covers a living area of 25 square meters and features a fully glazed exterior. This design choice brings in ample natural light, making the space feel larger and more inviting. Surrounding the living area is a terrace, which extends the dwelling's usable space. An openable glass wall enhances the connection between inside and outside, allowing occupants to engage with nature from their living room.

Container Slab
One notable feature of the Microhome is the use of a container slab. This design element provides an adaptable space that can adjust to various needs. It offers storage solutions without cluttering the main living area. This approach enables a more comfortable living environment while allowing for personal privacy.

Adaptability
The structure is built to adapt to different natural surroundings. Employing a regular construction system ensures stability and resilience, making it suitable for various locations. This adaptability emphasizes the design’s relevance to sustainable practices, showing a commitment to harmonizing with the environment.

Natural light floods the interior, complemented by cross-ventilation pathways created by strategically placed openings in the façade. This thoughtful detail enhances energy efficiency and contributes to the comfort of those living in the Microhome.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

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