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Cellulose-Filled Shelf Racks Create Flexible Living Spaces

Authors:
Aleksandra Krawczyk, Jakub Bąbik, Monika Popkiewicz
Cellulose-Filled Shelf Racks Create Flexible Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Filled with cellulose insulation, shelf racks form the structural backbone of a versatile living space designed to adapt to various user needs while promoting sustainability in residential architecture.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes shelf racks as primary structural elements.
02
Incorporates cellulose insulation for enhanced thermal performance.
03
Designed for modular adaptability to changing user needs.
04
Promotes sustainability through recyclable materials.
05
Offers an open-plan layout to facilitate fluid circulation.

The design focuses on modular construction, set within a contemporary residential environment. It aims to offer an efficient solution to living while addressing issues of sustainability and adaptability. The concept utilizes shelf racks as the main structural element, blending functionality and eco-consciousness.

Design Concept

Rethinking traditional building practices, the project incorporates shelf racks typically used in storage and logistics. This choice capitalizes on the inherent strength of the racks to create walls and partitions. The structure emphasizes modularity, allowing for flexibility in how spaces are arranged and used over time.

Material Efficiency

Thermal performance plays a significant role in the design. Racks are filled with cellulose fibers, improving insulation and creating a comfortable indoor climate. This choice supports the aim of reducing energy use for heating and cooling. It aligns well with goals of sustainability by promoting resource efficiency throughout the building's lifecycle.

Spatial Layout

The plan encourages natural movement between public and private areas. Communal spaces are designed to foster interaction, while private areas remain intimate and shielded. An open-plan approach enhances usability, providing a connected living experience. This flow creates a balance between social engagement and personal space.

Contextual Integration

The visual design complements its surroundings, maintaining a modern architectural language. Modular elements allow the structure to fit various site conditions gracefully. This adaptability showcases a practical response to changing residential needs, making the home relevant in a fluid urban landscape.

The thoughtful use of materials and space leads to a functional living area that embodies contemporary design principles. Each element is carefully chosen to enhance usability and sustainability, contributing to a well-rounded approach to modern living.

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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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