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Elevated Structure with Troldtekt Acoustic Panels and Sustainable Spruce for Urban Resilience

Authors:
Ayton Van Den Bossche, Marthe Vanrijkel
Elevated Structure with Troldtekt Acoustic Panels and Sustainable Spruce for Urban Resilience

Project in-detail

Elevated above the ground, the micro-home integrates Troldtekt acoustic panels and steamed spruce, creating a sustainable living solution designed for urban resilience and flood management.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure enhances flood resilience and reclaims usable land.
02
Troldtekt acoustic panels improve interior sound quality and comfort.
03
Steamed spruce wood minimizes environmental impact while providing durability.
04
Hexagonal layout fosters community interaction and efficient space utilization.
05
Integrated rainwater harvesting system supports sustainable water management.

**Overview and Context**
"The Living Cell" is designed as an innovative response to sustainable living, addressing environmental challenges, particularly in flood-prone urban areas. Through a conceptual framework inspired by biological systems, the design seeks to foster self-sufficiency and structural efficiency while promoting harmony with the natural surroundings. The project reflects a commitment to both ecological resilience and contemporary urban living practices.

**Architectural Form and Functionality**
The hexagonal form of the micro-home enables optimized spatial organization and encourages interaction among residents, akin to cellular structures that promote connectivity. The central concrete core functions as a vital systems hub, housing essential utilities such as electricity, water, and heating. The spatial divisions within the unit include a kitchen and dining area designed for energy production and nourishment; a living room that supports relaxation and socialization; a private bedroom with integrated storage solutions; and a bathroom emphasizing hygiene and personal care. Elevated three meters above ground, the structure enhances flood resilience while facilitating dynamic spatial experiences.

**Material Selection and Sustainable Strategies**
The materials chosen for The Living Cell play an essential role in achieving its sustainability goals. Concrete provides stability and durability, while steamed spruce wood contributes to reducing the carbon footprint and enhances aesthetic appeal. Kingspan's Troldtekt acoustic panels improve interior tranquility, and a curtain façade serves as an adaptable protective membrane for insulation and energy efficiency. Sustainability initiatives include rainwater harvesting systems and solar panels, which harness renewable energy and conserve resources, thus addressing the challenges associated with climate change and urbanization. Moreover, the elevated structure minimizes ecological disruption, preserving the surrounding flora and fauna.

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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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