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Cubes Constructed with Reconstituted Timber and Sheep Wool Insulation for Flexible Urban Living

Authors:
Jordan Ferguson smee, Mietta Mather
Cubes Constructed with Reconstituted Timber and Sheep Wool Insulation for Flexible Urban Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with reconstituted timber and fitted with sheep wool insulation, the modular living cubes offer flexibility and sustainability in urban housing solutions aimed at addressing contemporary affordability challenges.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a modular design, allowing for various configurations to meet occupant needs.
02
Incorporates a rainwater storage and filtration system for enhanced sustainability.
03
Features large sliding doors that establish seamless indoor and outdoor connectivity.
04
Utilizes sheep wool insulation for improved energy efficiency and environmental friendliness.
05
Designed with thoughtful storage solutions that maximize available space in compact living areas.

The project introduces a modular living solution designed to address urban residential density and affordability challenges, particularly in major Australian cities. It features three distinct living cubes that optimize space while allowing for flexibility in function. Each cube measures 7x7 feet and is built using conventional framing techniques, achieving a height of 2.7 meters. The design emphasizes prefabrication, which allows for efficient construction with reduced reliance on traditional site conditions and permitting.

Design Concept

The cubes are arranged to facilitate connections between interior and exterior spaces. Large sliding doors enhance this interaction, creating a sense of openness. This design not only maximizes the usable area but also fosters a pleasant living environment. The interior contrasts light, soft colors with a darker exterior, creating inviting spaces that promote comfort for residents.

Material Selection

Sustainability plays a key role in the material choices for the cubes. The framework utilizes sustainably sourced timber, while the exterior features reconstituted timber cladding. The use of sheep wool insulation contributes to energy efficiency. These selections reflect a commitment to reducing environmental impact and promote the use of renewable resources.

Functional Adaptability

A primary focus of the design is adaptability. The modular cubes allow for various configurations to accommodate the changing needs of residents. Inspired by Japanese Tatami rooms, raised floors offer easy access to storage and lend themselves to versatile living arrangements. An adjustable dining table enhances functionality, making it suitable for dining or other activities in the same space.

Sustainable Systems

The design incorporates a rainwater storage and filtration system, which addresses local environmental concerns and enhances overall sustainability. Various cube arrangements ensure optimal solar access, making the living spaces more energy-efficient. Each cube is designed thoughtfully, with dedicated areas that maximize storage while maintaining efficient workflows, demonstrating a practical approach to modern living.

In the bedroom, built-in wardrobes provide unobtrusive storage options, allowing residents to personalize their living environment. The kitchen is designed for both convenience and efficiency, with benches that maximize pantry space and support a smooth workflow for cooking and meal preparation. Each detail reflects a focus on creating functional, adaptable spaces that meet the diverse needs of urban residents.

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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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