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Bunker-Inspired Shelter Using Recycled Concrete and Sandwich Panels

Authors:
Oleksii Balaban, Hanna Popova, Stanislav Kotelevich, Vlad Symchych
Bunker-Inspired Shelter Using Recycled Concrete and Sandwich Panels

Project in-detail

Utilizing recycled concrete and sandwich panels, this microhome combines a fortified structure with sustainable design elements, offering a secure living space in a conflict-affected area.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled materials from local debris for construction.
02
Incorporates solar panels for energy efficiency and self-sufficiency.
03
Features a modular design enabling adaptability to various landscapes.
04
Integrates extensive glass panels for natural light and openness.
05
Designed as a fortified shelter offering safety during conflicts.

## Overview

The Bunker House is a response to the socio-political challenges in Ukraine, specifically designed to provide safe and functional microhousing in areas affected by military conflict. The intent is to create a dual-purpose dwelling that encompasses both security and comfort, addressing the urgent needs of individuals in unstable environments. This design not only considers immediate safety but also aims to enhance the living experience within a context of adversity.

## Spatial Strategy and Materiality

The architectural design prioritizes both resilience and livability through a well-considered spatial layout. It features a floor plan that includes essential living spaces—a kitchen, bathroom, and a multifunctional bedroom that doubles as a shelter. Expansive glass panels are incorporated to promote natural light and maintain a visual connection to the surrounding landscape, contributing to a tranquil atmosphere.

In terms of materiality, the Bunker House utilizes a combination of reinforced concrete for structural integrity and light wood, which contributes to a contemporary aesthetic while facilitating comfort. The design incorporates recycled materials from destroyed buildings, aligning with sustainability objectives. Solar panels are integrated to enhance energy efficiency, further reinforcing the commitment to environmentally responsible practices.

## Resilience and Adaptability

The Bunker House design emphasizes resilience in multiple dimensions. The lower section, constructed to withstand potential threats, serves as a protective haven. The modular nature of the building allows for continued safety even if the upper structure is compromised. Importantly, this design not only provides immediate refuge but also encourages community connectivity, as it is intended for use in conflict-affected areas, promoting a sense of solidarity among occupants.

Overall, the Bunker House exemplifies an innovative architectural solution capable of addressing both current humanitarian needs and future living conditions through its adaptive design and sustainable methodologies.

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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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