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Hay-Insulated Microhouse With Integrated Composting Systems for Mobile Living

Author:
Patrick Girdler
Hay-Insulated Microhouse With Integrated Composting Systems for Mobile Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from extruded clay and hay, this microhouse integrates composting toilets and a water retention system, providing sustainable living solutions for digital nomads.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using extruded clay and hay for insulation.
02
Features a compact footprint designed for flexibility in living arrangements.
03
Equipped with a composting toilet for sustainable waste management.
04
Integrates a water retention system for efficient resource use.
05
Designed for mobility, allowing partial dismantling and transport.

A Home For Nomads is a microhouse designed for those embracing flexible living in a fast-changing world. Located in a versatile environment, it aims to provide practical solutions for digital nomads who value sustainability and mobility. The design prioritizes both functionality and an appealing form, creating a living space that serves the needs of individuals and couples who work remotely.

Sustainability and Materiality

The structure is built using extruded clay and hay, which contribute to a strong insulating layer. This choice of materials is significant for energy efficiency and aligns with sustainable building practices. The use of locally sourced materials supports the local economy while reducing the environmental impact associated with transportation and production.

Spatial Organization and Flexibility

Inside, the home features high ceilings and windows that open, allowing fresh air to circulate. This promotes comfort while enhancing the quality of indoor air. The layout is intentionally designed to be flexible, enabling occupants to rearrange the central space for various activities. Whether for work, relaxation, or social gatherings, the interior adapts to meet changing needs.

Sustainable Systems and Mobility

A Home For Nomads incorporates key sustainable systems such as composting toilets and water retention mechanisms. These features reduce reliance on municipal services and encourage a lifestyle that is kinder to the environment. Notably, the house can be partially taken apart and moved, using its existing structural elements for support. This mobility reflects the lifestyle of modern nomads who often relocate.

Design Detail

Natural light plays an important role in the home's design. Carefully placed windows bring sunlight into the living spaces, creating a warm atmosphere. This detail not only enhances the overall ambiance but also makes the home feel inviting and connected to its 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

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