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Cylindrical Housing Units Constructed From Composite Boards for Sustainable Community Living

Authors:
Salvatore Lo Cascio, Emanuele Carlino
Cylindrical Housing Units Constructed From Composite Boards for Sustainable Community Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from sustainable composite boards, these modular cylindrical units provide adaptable housing solutions that facilitate community integration for vulnerable migrant populations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from crushed and reconstructed composite boards for enhanced sustainability.
02
Cylindrical modules promote efficient ventilation and natural cooling.
03
Integrated biological purification systems manage water resources effectively.
04
Community spaces encourage social interaction among residents.
05
Designed to easily configure into clusters for flexible living arrangements.

### Architectural Analysis Report: Haven Horizon

#### Overview
Haven Horizon is situated in Sicily, a region significantly impacted by the humanitarian crisis stemming from mass migration. With more than 200,340 migrants arriving on its shores by January 2024, the project aims to provide innovative housing solutions that promote dignity, hope, and new opportunities for individuals seeking refuge. The design is a direct response to social challenges, focusing on creating an environment that fosters integration and community support for vulnerable populations, particularly unaccompanied minors and women.

#### Materiality and Construction Approach
The architectural composition includes cylindrical modules constructed from sustainable materials, specifically crushed and reconstructed composite boards. This technique embodies the project's philosophy of "from wrecks to rebirth," reinforcing an eco-friendly approach. The cylindrical forms are clustered to symbolize social cohesion while optimizing natural cooling and ventilation, which are essential in the Sicilian climate.

Key materials utilized in construction comprise corrosion-resistant copper for exterior elements, transparent polycarbonate for partitions, and reinforced concrete for structural bases. Additionally, integrated biological purification systems and solar panels significantly enhance both sustainability and resource efficiency, minimizing waste through a circular economy approach.

#### Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The design incorporates shared spaces such as cooking areas, bathrooms, laundry facilities, and gathering zones, all aimed at encouraging social interaction and cultural exchange among residents. Each cylindrical module is equipped with a kitchenette, seating area, and private sleeping quarters, allowing for flexible living arrangements. Modular aggregation permits the formation of community clusters, fostering collaboration and cooperative living.

Further, innovative water purification and energy systems have been implemented to enhance self-sufficiency. Rainwater harvesting and wastewater treatment contribute to an independent living environment, while natural ventilation mechanisms reduce reliance on artificial cooling. Solar energy integration supports energy sustainability, lowering overall energy consumption.

The overarching framework of Haven Horizon not only addresses immediate housing needs but also strives to create connections between migrants and the host community, thereby facilitating smoother transitions into local society.

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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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