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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cellulose Insulation in Community-Centric Modular Housing

Authors:
Joachim Widerstedt, John Helmfridsson, Lena Boman
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cellulose Insulation in Community-Centric Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cellulose insulation, the design emphasizes sustainability and community involvement through modular units that foster a collaborative living environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Utilizes cellulose insulation derived from recycled materials for energy efficiency.
03
Features a modular design allowing for flexible living arrangements and community customization.
04
Integrates bent A-frame geometry to optimize natural light and airflow.
05
Encourages resident participation in construction and maintenance for a sense of ownership.

### Project Overview

Situated in a context that emphasizes sustainability and community involvement, this design initiative aims to address the need for affordable housing by engaging future residents in the decision-making process. The approach aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Agenda, supporting a framework that encourages residents to participate in the development and maintenance of their living spaces, thereby fostering social sustainability from the outset.

### Spatial and Community Dynamics

The design prioritizes a community-oriented residential layout, focusing on affordability, quality, and ecological balance. Central to this are modular housing concepts and prefabricated systems that facilitate self-management and shared living experiences. Initial community involvement was integral to shaping the design, reinforcing social bonds. The arrangement features distinct communal areas that promote interaction among residents, establishing a sense of belonging while preserving personal privacy through a thoughtful division of shared and private spaces.

### Material Selection and Construction Techniques

A commitment to sustainability guides the material choices, which include renewable resources such as wood that enhances carbon neutrality and provides natural insulation. The design integrates cellulose insulation to further improve energy efficiency and indoor climate control. Additionally, thin-film photovoltaic panels harness solar energy cost-effectively. The use of prefabrication techniques minimizes construction waste and ensures high-quality assembly, enabling rapid construction while reducing disruption to the surrounding community. These strategies collectively contribute to a sustainable living environment tailored to the needs of diverse family sizes and lifestyles.

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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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