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Biobased Modular Homes Featuring Breathable Envelopes in Compact Living Spaces

Authors:
Tim Keeble, Vanessa Sandri, Dominik Grunhut
Biobased Modular Homes Featuring Breathable Envelopes in Compact Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Modular cubes constructed from biobased materials and designed with a breathable envelope create flexible living environments tailored for modern occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular cubes allow for easy expansion and reconfiguration of living spaces.
02
Biobased materials ensure a low environmental impact and non-toxic living conditions.
03
The absence of a vapor control layer enhances breathability and indoor air quality.
04
A repeated grid system empowers occupants to customize their home layouts.
05
Flexible furniture solutions maximize functionality in compact living areas.

The ADAPTHOME project is an exploration of adaptable living spaces designed to meet the diverse needs of modern occupants. Located in a contemporary setting, it focuses on modularity and sustainability. The overall design aims to create functional environments where users can customize their living experience according to their preferences and lifestyle.

Architectural Concept
The main idea behind ADAPTHOME is the use of modular cubes that can be prefabricated off-site. This approach not only streamlines the construction process but also makes it easy to transport and set up. With the ability to expand or alter their homes, residents can adjust the space as their needs change. Flexibility is a core principle, allowing the architecture to adapt to various living requirements.

Materiality
The project prioritizes sustainability through the choice of materials. Natural biobased materials are used throughout, ensuring they are free from harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This selection supports the overall life cycle of the building, aiming for easy dismantling and composting when the structure is no longer in use. The focus on eco-friendly materials reinforces a commitment to environmentally conscious design.

Interior Layout and Customization
Inside ADAPTHOME, a repeated grid system enables occupants to rearrange their space easily. This layout encourages personalization, allowing residents to use off-the-shelf materials for furniture and fixtures. Such an arrangement maximizes the functionality of each living area. The use of flexible furniture means that every piece can serve multiple roles, a practical solution for smaller living spaces.

Breathable Envelope
The design avoids the use of a vapor control layer (VCL) in the building envelope, resulting in a structure that is both holistic and breathable. This element enhances the building's adaptability to changing weather conditions and supports good indoor air quality. As a result, the structure remains comfortable and durable, contributing to a healthy living environment.

One engaging detail of the design is the incorporation of adaptable furniture. Each piece is crafted to fit within the modular design, promoting efficiency without compromising on style. This thoughtful approach underscores the project’s commitment to flexible living within a balanced and sustainable framework.

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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

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