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Folding Walls and Moss Integration in a Sustainable Living Space

Author:
Max Davidoff
Folding Walls and Moss Integration in a Sustainable Living Space

Project in-detail

The integration of folding walls and moss within a modular panel system creates a dynamic living space that adapts to seasonal changes, emphasizing sustainability in its design.
5 key facts about this project
01
Folding wall panels allow for seasonal adaptation of living spaces.
02
The design incorporates moss for natural insulation and aesthetic value.
03
Rainwater collection system integrated into the roof design.
04
Inspired by geometric forms found in nature, including Miura folds.
05
Solar panels optimize energy efficiency while enhancing sustainability.

The design emphasizes flexibility in living spaces that adapt to seasonal changes. It is situated in an area that encourages a strong connection with nature, making the interaction between the home and outdoor environment important. The overall concept centers around a modular panel system that enhances both functionality and appearance.

Adaptability and Modularity

The key feature of the design is an exterior frame that allows walls to fold up and down. This mechanism enables users to customize their living areas based on the time of year. Different panels can be used, such as those made from insulative materials, glass, and moss. In winter, the insulative panels provide better energy efficiency, while during warmer months, the glass and moss panels increase natural light in the home.

Natural Inspiration and Structure

The design derives inspiration from forms found in nature. One notable aspect is the use of the Miura origami fold, which combines flexibility with strength. Elements are informed by cues from pinecones and honeycomb structures, establishing a visual language connected to the natural world. The geometry of the building adds a distinctive character that enhances its functionality as well.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a significant focus of the design. Solar panels are integrated into the structure to harness renewable energy. The sloped roof design effectively collects rainwater, which is then stored and filtered for use inside the home. This careful consideration of resource management highlights the goal of building an environmentally friendly living space that collaborates with the ecosystem.

Distinctive Design Element

A notable detail is the way the exterior walls extend from the house itself. This design not only allows for increased sunlight to enter the interior but also creates a lively play of light and shadow. Such elements contribute to a bright, welcoming atmosphere and support the overall energy efficiency of the home. The thoughtful incorporation of light into the design ultimately enhances the living experience within the space.

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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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