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Foldable Paper Walls in a Height-Adjustable Microhome

Authors:
Michael Iking, Michael Fox, Jose Cabirta
Foldable Paper Walls in a Height-Adjustable Microhome

Project in-detail

Utilizing foldable paper walls and height-adjustable features, this microhome redefines compact living by offering flexible spaces that adapt to various everyday functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes foldable paper walls for flexible room configurations.
02
Incorporates height-adjustable fixtures for customizable usage.
03
Features a rainwater collection system for enhanced sustainability.
04
Allows battery charging through user-generated energy, such as cycling.
05
Designed for adaptability in urban and rural environments.

The VertiCore microhome is designed to maximize space and functionality in a compact form. With an emphasis on both efficiency and sustainability, it answers the needs of modern living. This microhome is suitable for various settings, both in urban areas and rural locations. Its design revolves around a central core that integrates essential living functions while embracing flexible living arrangements.

Modular Design and Flexibility

The layout focuses on modularity, featuring a vertical elevating system that allows for easy transformation of spaces. This includes height-adjustable components like a shower, sink, and bed. They can be adjusted quickly to create different living or sleeping areas as needed. The elevating table enhances this versatility, ensuring the microhome can adapt to various daily activities without the need for permanent alterations.

Foldable Wall Systems

A key feature of the VertiCore is its use of foldable walls, known as Molo. These lightweight paper partitions provide the ability to create separate rooms or open spaces according to the user's needs. When not in use, these walls can be efficiently folded down to save space. This adaptability not only increases functional use but also helps the microhome feel more spacious and accommodating.

Sustainable Integration

Sustainability is an important element of the design. The microhome includes a rainwater collection system that helps manage water resources efficiently. Additionally, it has built-in battery systems that allow for charging through physical activity, such as using a bicycle. This promotes independence from standard energy sources and reflects a growing concern for environmental issues.

User-Centric Details

Designed with the user in mind, the VertiCore features movable cabinetry that offers customizable storage. This allows for personal choice in layout and organization, helping residents adapt the space to their specific needs. Overall, the design combines practical efficiency with the opportunity for personal expression, creating a living environment that aligns with modern values of flexibility and sustainability.

In detail, the microhome represents a thoughtful response to contemporary housing challenges, reflecting the balance between functionality, efficiency, and individuality.

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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
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