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Flexible Modular Units with Structural Insulated Panels and Operable Outdoor Spaces

Authors:
Zane Richter, Tayla Bezant, Chiara Cannavicci, Ana Castro carrasco
Flexible Modular Units with Structural Insulated Panels and Operable Outdoor Spaces

Project in-detail

Constructed with Structural Insulated Panels and a proprietary rail system, these flexible modular units adapt to various climatic conditions while promoting community living in a sustainable, off-grid environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular flexibility allows for easy reconfiguration based on seasonal changes.
02
Operable outdoor panels enhance interaction with the environment.
03
Water management system includes interconnected 330-liter tanks for sustainability.
04
Proprietary rail system enables efficient relocation of modules.
05
Designed to withstand specific local climate challenges in Western Australia.

The design focuses on modular structures that are adaptable to the unique climatic conditions in different parts of Western Australia, including Albany, Derby, Fremantle, and Warburton. Each of these areas presents specific environmental challenges that have shaped how the structures are conceived. The overall idea is to create flexible living spaces that cater to individual preferences while responding to the diverse characteristics of each location.

Configurational Flexibility

A proprietary rail system allows for easy rearrangement of the modules. This means residents can adjust their living spaces as needed. The focus is on a user-centric design, enabling customization based on personal preferences or changing seasons. Interconnected modules facilitate a smooth flow between indoor and outdoor environments.

Site-Specific Responses

Design changes according to each site’s climate. Albany's wet and mild conditions, combined with strong coastal winds, require thoughtful design to create comfort. In Derby, with its hot, wet tropical climate, the structures are built to handle heavy rainfall effectively. Fremantle’s temperate environment benefits from spaces that encourage the connection of indoors and outdoors, especially taking advantage of cool summer breezes. Warburton, facing hot and dry desert conditions, features adaptations suitable for its climate.

Sustainable Design Elements

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) selected for their strength and insulation. These panels allow for quick assembly and disassembly of the structures. Water management systems are in place, including interconnected 330-liter tanks that promote eco-friendly usage. An energy setup includes battery storage capable of 12V and 240V outputs, with a combined capacity of 14 kWh. This setup is critical for off-grid living situations.

Innovative Community Integration

The layout encourages a sense of community, as shown in the site plans featuring multiple dwellings. Each module is designed to include different areas for sleeping, bathing, and living, promoting ease of use while allowing for social interaction. The outdoor spaces are adaptable, with panels that can adjust to seasonal changes, creating a strong link to the environment that allows for various activities.

Distinctive features such as the wire systems that support vertical plants contribute to ecological integration. The design's modularity and attention to local conditions reflect a thoughtful response to the practical housing needs of the region. As the project develops, it continues to address the challenges posed by changing environmental conditions while aiming for a balance between comfort and sustainability.

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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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