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Flexible Micro-Blocks with Mycelium and Recycled Steel in Coastal Living

Authors:
Han Lin, Mark Goncalves
Flexible Micro-Blocks with Mycelium and Recycled Steel in Coastal Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing mycelium and recycled steel, this flexible residential solution comprises interconnected micro-blocks designed to foster adaptability and engagement with the coastal landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes luminescent solar concentrators for energy capture.
02
Constructed with mycelium, providing sustainable material benefits.
03
Offers flexible living through modular micro-block configurations.
04
Strategically located for optimal views of the surrounding landscape.
05
Incorporates recycled steel for enhanced structural sustainability.

HYPHA-B Binding Architecture by ECOLOO is a modular residential project located in Sapphiretown on Kangaroo Island. It focuses on the difference between a house and a home, aiming to enhance the everyday living experience. The design revolves around interconnected micro-blocks, offering functional flexibility while maintaining a strong connection to the natural environment.

Architecture Concept
The design emphasizes adaptability and active participation from residents. The building is divided into three primary sections: “Bedroom/Bathroom,” “Kitchen/Living,” and “Open.” This modular structure encourages personalization of living spaces according to individual needs. By breaking away from conventional housing layouts, the design fosters diverse interactions and a lively atmosphere.



Materiality
Sustainability plays a significant role in the choice of materials for HYPHA-B. The project incorporates mycelium and recycled steel, aligning with modern efforts to reduce environmental impact. Mycelium offers innovative construction possibilities, while recycled steel provides both strength and durability. These choices reflect a commitment to eco-friendly practices in residential design.



Integration with Landscape
HYPHA-B is thoughtfully positioned to connect with its natural surroundings. Thin roads wind through soft landscapes, creating a gentle approach to the home. Ample windows and open spaces direct attention to scenic views, such as a shallow body of water nearby. This interaction with nature promotes a sense of harmony between the living environment and the outdoor landscape.



Energy Efficiency
The design makes use of Luminescent Solar Concentrators (LSC) to enhance energy efficiency. This technology captures natural light and supports effective water catchment systems. LSCs provide a flexible energy solution that stands apart from traditional solar panels, reinforcing the overall goal of sustainability within HYPHA-B.


The outcome is a well-considered residential solution that balances practicality and environmental responsibility, demonstrating a thoughtful approach to modern living that connects people with their surroundings.

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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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