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Wood Walls and Flexible Solar Panels in a Sustainable Living Environment

Author:
Maria noel Basterrech tiscordio
Wood Walls and Flexible Solar Panels in a Sustainable Living Environment

Project in-detail

Incorporating wood walls and flexible solar panels, the design creates a sustainable living environment that seamlessly integrates functional spaces with natural elements, prioritizing both community interaction and ecological harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a ceiling projection for enhanced spatial dynamics.
02
Features compost areas to support sustainable living.
03
Utilizes flexible solar panels for energy efficiency.
04
Includes dedicated plant zones to engage residents with nature.
05
Constructed with a wood wall to enhance insulation and aesthetics.

The project "I BE LEAF" presents an innovative approach to merging architecture with nature. It is designed to create a living environment that supports both human activities and ecological balance. The layout includes various functional spaces, such as areas for plants, storage, bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, kitchens, and compost zones. This arrangement promotes community interaction and emphasizes the importance of integrating natural elements into everyday life.

Functional Areas

The design features a variety of spaces, all positioned to encourage movement and social engagement. Each area has a distinct purpose while contributing to a cohesive whole. The inclusion of plant areas enhances the connection to the environment, allowing residents to experience nature firsthand, thus fostering a sense of well-being within the built environment.

Spatial Dynamics

One interesting design feature is the ceiling projection. It adds depth and character to the interior spaces, making them feel more inviting. This element allows for flexibility in how the areas are used, adapting easily to different activities. The dynamic quality of the projection contributes to a lively atmosphere, enhancing how one interacts with the space.

Sustainability Features

Flexible solar panels are a notable aspect of the design, highlighting a commitment to sustainable practices. By generating renewable energy, these panels help reduce the building's carbon footprint and support energy needs. The integration of such features aligns with modern standards for environmentally responsible design, promoting an efficient and eco-friendly living experience.

Material Choices

A wall made of wood is another important material in the design. This choice adds warmth and texture to the interior while reinforcing the theme of sustainability. Wood is a renewable resource that contributes to better insulation and energy performance. The thoughtful selection of materials supports the overall vision of creating a harmonious relationship between people and nature.

The layout’s careful arrangement of various spaces helps build a sense of community. Plant areas punctuate the environment, enhancing the connection to the outdoors. Overall, the design fosters a lifestyle that seamlessly blends indoor living with a vibrant natural setting.

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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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