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3D Printed Housing With Cellulose Insulation and Community Garden Features

Author:
Emma Weber
3D Printed Housing With Cellulose Insulation and Community Garden Features

Project in-detail

Utilizing 3D printed structures and cellulose insulation, the design emphasizes sustainable living through flexible micro-units and integrated community gardens, addressing the urgent need for accessible housing.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes 3D printing technology for rapid construction.
02
Incorporates cellulose insulation for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Features modular units that allow for adaptive living spaces.
04
Includes integrated community gardens for resident involvement.
05
Employs recycled materials in water collection systems.

### Overview

Located in Los Angeles, California, the EnAble project is designed to address homelessness and improve accessibility in urban settings. The initiative responds to the urgent housing crisis affecting vulnerable populations, particularly those with physical disabilities. By prioritizing accessibility and sustainability, the project seeks to create inclusive living solutions tailored to diverse community needs.

### Spatial Strategy and User-Centric Design

EnAble employs a micro-living model that utilizes 3D printing technology, allowing for efficient construction and adaptability. The design incorporates universal principles that ensure spaces are functional for individuals of all abilities. Flexible configurations allow for diverse uses, while the incorporation of low-exertion elements minimizes physical strain. Community-focused features such as gardens and shared spaces advocate for interaction and collective well-being, enriching the living experience.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

Innovative materials are central to the project's design, enhancing both functionality and environmental performance. Structures are constructed using 3D printed local earth and cellulose insulation for improved thermal efficiency. Sustainable components such as Kingspan Quadcore LEC panels for roofing reduce heat gain, while Kingspan Perforated Cassette panels promote natural ventilation. Integrated recycled water tanks facilitate rainwater collection, supporting the micro-living ecosystem. Structural elements of pressure-treated wood and steel ensure durability while maintaining a minimal environmental footprint.

The architectural aesthetics reflect organic forms that harmonize with the surroundings. Features such as transformable furniture and modular room configurations optimize limited space and adapt according to the occupants' needs. Additional design elements include passive solar heating strategies and a solar chimney, enhancing environmental responsiveness while providing accessibility through thoughtful integrations such as low thresholds and touch-sensitive controls.

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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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