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Galvanized Steel and Sips Create Flexible Community Living in Nevada

Authors:
Denver Fernandes, Altan-Od Baatarsuren, Jedsadaphon Thianphimai, John Francis
Galvanized Steel and Sips Create Flexible Community Living in Nevada

Project in-detail

Constructed with galvanized steel and SIPS for enhanced energy efficiency, this community-centric development in Nevada offers flexible living solutions that integrate residential and commercial spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible modular design accommodates diverse living arrangements.
02
Integrated commercial and residential spaces enhance community interaction.
03
Utilizes a 225mm SIPS airtight seal for improved energy efficiency.
04
Incorporates galvanized steel beams to ensure structural durability.
05
Double-glazed windows optimize natural light and thermal performance.

The recent housing design brings a fresh perspective to urban living, addressing the growing demand for affordable housing solutions. Located in an area that values both community and utility, the design cleverly combines residential and commercial spaces. The concept focuses on modularity, allowing flexibility in how spaces can be configured and used. This approach aims to create an environment that supports everyday life and fosters connections among residents.

Design Intent

The layout incorporates both one-bedroom and two-bedroom units, emphasizing functionality and comfort. Each unit is designed to maximize space, allowing for easy movement between private and communal areas. The structure encourages interaction, creating opportunities for neighbors to engage with one another while enjoying their surroundings. This architectural choice aims to enhance the living experience by promoting a sense of belonging.

Material Considerations

A variety of materials has been thoughtfully chosen to ensure durability and efficiency. Galvanized steel beams offer strong structural support while resisting corrosion, which contributes to longevity. Wooden joists provide warmth and character to the interiors, balancing practicality with aesthetic appeal. Every material has a purpose, working together to create a cohesive building environment.

Sustainability Features

Energy efficiency is a key consideration in the design. The building features a 225mm SIPS airtight seal combined with a Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR) system. These elements work together to minimize energy loss while maintaining fresh air circulation. Additionally, the use of double-glazed windows improves insulation and allows natural light to fill the spaces. PV panels installed on the roof focus on harnessing solar energy, further enhancing sustainability.

Architectural Detailing

Exterior design elements add to the building's overall character. A render finish on chipboard enhances the aesthetic, while the gutter drainage system effectively manages rainwater runoff. The fascia board with a drip edge not only serves practical needs but also contributes to the visual flow of the structure. These details reflect a careful consideration of both functionality and beauty, completing the vision for a supportive living environment.

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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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