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Breathable Damp Membrane and GLULAM Framework in Sustainable Housing Solution

Author:
Adam mark Fiegler
Breathable Damp Membrane and GLULAM Framework in Sustainable Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Utilizing a GLULAM framework and breathable damp membrane, the design showcases a sustainable housing solution that effectively reuses materials while adapting to diverse living needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a GLULAM framework for enhanced structural stability.
02
Incorporates a breathable damp membrane for improved indoor air quality.
03
Features modular components that allow easy reconfiguration.
04
Maximizes energy efficiency with FSC certified plywood insulation.
05
Designed for a maximum usable area of 100 square meters.

The Modular Home offers a thoughtful response to the increasing need for sustainable and flexible living spaces. Located in an environment that values ecological responsibility, the design emphasizes principles of modularity and a circular economy. By turning waste materials into useful building components, it presents a practical solution for modern housing demands, allowing occupants to personalize their spaces easily.

Design Concept

The concept behind the Modular Home focuses on integrating recycling processes within the construction method. The aim is to minimize waste by reusing discarded materials as essential building elements. The layout allows for various configurations, making the space adaptable to different living conditions. Components can be assembled and disassembled with relative ease, supporting users who need to adjust their homes as their lifestyles change.

Materials

Key materials play an important role in shaping the performance and aesthetics of the Modular Home. The roof is made from a Greencoat steel sheet, along with a breathable damp membrane that protects the interior from harsh weather. Inside, the use of FSC certified plywood and wood fiber insulation helps achieve energy efficiency and comfort. Timber flooring, sourced from DINESEN, is installed in the ground floor, while sound insulation is added to address noise reduction, reflecting a focus on both practicality and sustainability.

Structural Elements

The structure relies on a foundation beam made of GLULAM for strength and stability. The design incorporates up to 100 square meters of usable space. This area includes essential rooms like bathrooms and kitchens, all of which can be tailored to meet individual needs. Windows constructed from recycled timber frames and fitted with double-glazed panels improve the home's thermal performance, curbing energy consumption and enhancing comfort.

Functional Adaptability

One important feature of the Modular Home is its ability to adapt to the changing needs of its users. The design allows for modifications, making it easy to personalize while ensuring the structure remains strong. As users' preferences evolve or new technologies are developed, the various components can be reconfigured, allowing the home to remain relevant for years to come.

A notable detail is the combination of materials in the insulation and protective layers. This layered approach fosters a balance between the home's appearance and its functional efficiency, ensuring a comfortable living environment.

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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
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