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Chopped Straw Panels and Biobased Materials Shaping Multifamily Housing Solutions

Author:
Lidia Birukova
Chopped Straw Panels and Biobased Materials Shaping Multifamily Housing Solutions

Project in-detail

Constructed using chopped straw panels and biobased materials, this multifamily housing solution addresses urgent housing needs while integrating community-focused spaces and emergency shelter provisions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Chopped straw panels provide effective insulation with high R-values.
02
The design incorporates a built-in safety core for emergency shelter.
03
Local materials are prioritized to support regional economies.
04
Modular components allow for rapid assembly and adaptability.
05
Community spaces are integrated to enhance social interaction among residents.

### Overview
The EcoModular project is situated in Ukraine and addresses the urgent need for housing reconstruction following conflict-related destruction. This initiative integrates modular building techniques with eco-friendly materials to create resilient urban environments. By prioritizing sustainability, the design focuses on efficient construction and the development of vibrant communities within the existing urban fabric.

### Spatial Strategy and Community Integration
The EcoModular design employs a modular kit-of-parts approach, offering flexibility in the construction of multifamily housing units. This strategy enhances adaptability to varying housing needs while maintaining eco-friendly standards. The design incorporates essential elements like emergency shelters, green spaces, and communal areas, promoting the principles of a "15-minute city," which emphasizes accessibility to vital services. The arrangement of public spaces encourages social interaction and pedestrian connectivity, aiming to foster a sense of community among residents.

### Materials and Structural Integrity
The selection of materials in the EcoModular project reflects a thoughtful commitment to ecological sustainability and structural robustness. Key materials include wheat-based biobased products, chopped straw panels that provide substantial insulation, and locally sourced cladding materials. Concrete is utilized for foundational elements, ensuring durability, while wood and straw components contribute to both aesthetic appeal and environmental efficiency. This combination illustrates an innovative approach that balances modern construction techniques with traditional material use, enhancing both sustainability and functionality within the design.

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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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