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Cork-Infused Living Modules with Retractable Stairs for Sustainable Community

Authors:
Celestino Mercuri, Kevin Granella, Davide Pilato barrara, Luca Battistini
Cork-Infused Living Modules with Retractable Stairs for Sustainable Community

Project in-detail

Constructed with cork-infused sandwich panels and a tubular steel frame, two modular living units feature retractable stairs and an integrated rainwater management system, serving as a compact solution for sustainable community living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cork-infused sandwich panels for enhanced insulation.
02
Features a retractable staircase to optimize space usage.
03
Incorporates an oversized gutter for efficient rainwater collection.
04
Equipped with photovoltaic panels for energy self-sufficiency.
05
Includes a composting toilet linked to a vegetable garden for sustainable waste management.

The modular living solution emphasizes both functionality and sustainability within its designed environment. It includes two connected living modules that are well thought out to meet various needs. The core idea is to create efficient spaces that encourage social interaction while also providing private areas. The arrangement uses a two-story layout, with communal areas on the ground floor and private sleeping quarters on the second floor, catering to diverse lifestyle requirements.

Design Layout

On the ground floor, the layout comprises a living room, bathroom, and pantry. This design allows for natural movement and interaction among residents, helping build a sense of community. The first floor, in contrast, focuses on privacy, housing the bedrooms. Access between the levels is provided by a retractable staircase, which makes the most of the available space and adds flexibility in how the modules can be used.

Material Composition

The structural strength comes from a tubular steel frame, measuring 5x5 cm and 3 mm thick. This choice is practical since the steel provides solid support while keeping the overall structure lightweight. The walls consist of sandwich panels made from fir beads and cork, enhancing insulation and demonstrating a focus on sustainable practices with locally sourced materials. This thoughtful choice reflects modern trends in responsible building.

Sustainable Features

A notable aspect of the design is an innovative water management system, featuring a wide gutter that surrounds the building. This gutter captures rainwater for reuse, directing it into an underground tank. Such features encourage sustainable living. Photovoltaic panels are installed to generate electricity, while thermal solar panels on the roof help with heating. Additionally, a gray water disposal system, equipped with an underground degreaser, allows for the irrigation of a small vegetable garden, which benefits from natural composting.

The design prioritizes a blend of technology, functionality, and concern for the environment. This thoughtful approach shows through not only in how energy systems are integrated but also in how they contribute to the overall living experience. A focus on practical, environmentally friendly aspects reflects a commitment to creating a harmonious space for its inhabitants.

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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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