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Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Efficient Utility Packs Shape Modern Off-Grid Housing

Author:
Carl Edvall Nicevski
Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Efficient Utility Packs Shape Modern Off-Grid Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber panels and advanced utility packs, this sustainable housing solution offers flexible, off-grid living tailored for modern residents seeking efficient and environmentally conscious design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and low carbon footprint.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space while providing aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes modular utility packs that support off-grid living with integrated renewable energy systems.
05
Offers flexible interior layouts that adapt to various user needs and living arrangements.

**Overview**

Located in a context increasingly concerned with affordable housing and environmental sustainability, the UP25 project features a sustainable prefab housing solution designed to meet modern living demands. This initiative addresses the housing crisis by offering a flexible and resource-efficient model primarily targeting young adults and vulnerable communities. The project emphasizes eco-conscious living through a net-zero carbon footprint by integrating essential utilities within compact, adaptable units.

**Modular System and User-Centric Design**

The UP25 employs a modular design that allows for a range of configurations, accommodating both single and multi-story arrangements. This adaptability supports various housing needs and encourages scalable living arrangements. Users can initiate their experience with basic modules and expand over time, ensuring economic viability and customization. The design encourages effective resource management by educating residents on sustainable utility sourcing, seamlessly integrating essential services like electricity, heating, and rainwater management into the framework.

**Material Selection and Environmental Integration**

The architectural approach utilizes a selection of sustainable materials designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing durability. Key components include QuadCore AWP LEC wall panels, recognized for their low embodied carbon and design versatility, and Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) frameboards, which offer structural stability and an organic aesthetic. Technical utility packs equipped with solar cells and rainwater collection systems facilitate off-grid functionality. Additionally, multifunctional furniture elements are incorporated to optimize space, enhancing usability within the compact living environment. This focus on a cohesive material strategy underscores the commitment to sustainable practices while fostering a visually harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
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The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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