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Hempcrete and Glulam Timber Create Community-Centered Modular Housing Solution

Authors:
Marine Szymczak, Gaetan Camille Tristan Croisille
Hempcrete and Glulam Timber Create Community-Centered Modular Housing Solution

Project in-detail

Utilizing hempcrete and glulam timber, this modular housing solution provides a flexible, sustainable living environment tailored for community adaptation in response to varying family needs.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for rapid deployment and adaptability to various family structures.
02
Utilizes hempcrete for enhanced thermal insulation and sustainability.
03
Glulam timber framework supports structural integrity while reducing carbon footprint.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for self-sufficient water management.
05
Flexible interior layouts facilitate personalized living experiences for residents.

### Project Overview

Located in regions affected by displacement crises, the design responds to the pressing need for adaptable and environmentally responsible housing solutions. It aims to address homelessness and inadequate shelter for communities impacted by conflict or natural disasters, prioritizing equitable access to basic living conditions.

### Modular Housing System

The design revolves around a modular housing system characterized by its self-sufficiency and adaptability. Each unit incorporates a grid format that facilitates flexibility, allowing for distinct configurations that enable residents to customize their living spaces. Fixed elements such as bathrooms and kitchens coexist with flexible spaces, promoting a balance between privacy and communal interaction. Movable furniture and transformable layouts further support diverse family structures, accommodating various needs.

### Sustainable Design Features

The project emphasizes sustainability through the use of eco-friendly materials and renewable energy solutions. Key structural components include glulam timber, which serves as the primary support framework, while hemp concrete provides efficient insulation for interior finishes. The exterior is clad in durable corrugated metal sheeting, enhancing weather resistance. Additionally, solar panels generate renewable energy, and a rainwater harvesting system ensures a reliable water supply. Wastewater treatment features reflect a comprehensive approach to environmental management, underscoring the project's commitment to sustainable living practices.

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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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