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Bamboo Cladding and Rainwater Harvesting in Flexible Modular Housing

Authors:
Ruby Dionisio, Maianne Capellan, Carlos Suzara
Bamboo Cladding and Rainwater Harvesting in Flexible Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Laminated bamboo cladding and a rainwater harvesting system define this modular living solution that adapts effortlessly to diverse environments, providing sustainable housing options.
5 key facts about this project
01
Laminated bamboo cladding enhances both aesthetics and durability in diverse climates.
02
Modular design allows for multiple configurations to suit various site conditions.
03
Rainwater harvesting technology promotes self-sufficiency in water use.
04
The structure's adaptability encourages personalized living spaces for occupants.
05
Sustainable materials minimize environmental impact throughout the building's lifecycle.

The UBIQ Modular Living Module is an architectural project designed to address contemporary housing challenges through modularity and sustainability. This innovative housing solution focuses on adaptability, allowing for various configurations and efficient use of space. The design emphasizes universal applicability, incorporating features that make it relevant in both urban and rural settings. It stands as a prototype for affordable housing while encouraging environmentally responsible practices.

The project utilizes a variety of durable materials, including laminated bamboo cladding for aesthetics and sustainability, steel frames for structural support, and gypsum board insulation for thermal efficiency. These elements collectively contribute to a resilient design capable of withstanding diverse environmental conditions, ensuring longevity and minimal maintenance.

Adaptive Modularity: Flexible Space Allocation

One of the key design features of the UBIQ module is its adaptive configuration. It can be assembled in multiple ways to suit different site conditions and user requirements. For instance, the design accommodates flat, sloped, or clustered arrangements, enabling flexibility in placement and interaction among units. This level of adaptability promotes community connectivity, allowing residents to engage in a shared space while maintaining their personal living environments.

The modular approach not only facilitates assembly and disassembly but aligns with sustainable practices by reducing construction waste. This focus on reversibility allows residents to modify their spaces over time, fostering a sense of ownership and personalized design that is often absent in traditional housing.

Sustainability and Self-sufficiency

The integration of sustainable technologies is another distinctive aspect of the UBIQ module. Photovoltaic solar panels are incorporated to harness renewable energy, reducing dependence on conventional power sources. Additionally, the project includes a rainwater harvesting system, enabling residents to collect and utilize rainwater for everyday needs. These features support the objective of creating self-sufficient living environments that are in harmony with their surroundings.

The UBIQ Modular Living Module offers a holistic approach to modern housing by combining innovative design, sustainability, and flexibility. It prompts a re-examination of residential architecture, urging stakeholders to consider the adaptability of living spaces within broader environmental contexts. To explore detailed architectural plans, sections, and designs that highlight the functionality and potential of this project, interested readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the project presentation.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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